Listeria monocytogenes, commonly known as Listeria, is a bacteria that can cause foodborne illness, particularly in vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Here are some of the most common questions asked about Listeria on the internet: 1. What is Listeria? Listeria is a type of bacteria that can cause an infection called listeriosis.
It is often found in contaminated food and can survive and grow even in cold temperatures. 2. What foods are most associated with Listeria contamination? Foods commonly associated with Listeria contamination include unpasteurized milk and dairy products, soft cheeses (such as Brie and feta), deli meats, hot dogs, smoked seafood, and raw or undercooked vegetables.
3. What are the symptoms of Listeria infection? Symptoms of listeriosis can include fever, muscle aches, nausea, diarrhea, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. In pregnant women, symptoms may be mild, but the infection can lead to severe outcomes for the fetus, including miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal infection.
4. How long does it take for symptoms of Listeria to appear? Symptoms typically appear anywhere from a few days to several weeks (up to 70 days) after consuming contaminated food. 5.
How is Listeria diagnosed and treated? Listeria infection is diagnosed through laboratory testing of blood, spinal fluid, or other bodily fluids. The primary treatment for listeriosis is a course of .