Listeria infection, or listeriosis, is a serious foodborne illness caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. Listeria is a rare illness and can affect anyone but poses a severe threat to certain vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, newborns, older adults and people with weakened immune systems. This infection can spread through contaminated food, leading to severe complications if not treated properly. Recently, Listeria outbreak in the United States has raised concerns about the safety of deli meats and other processed foods. The Listeria 2024 outbreak has spread to 18 states, leaving 57 people hospitalised and causing nine deaths. This outbreak is considered the country’s largest since the 2011 outbreak. Thus, it is important to know the symptoms, causes, prevention and treatment of this infection for maintaining health and safety.

What Is Listeria Infection?

Listeria monocytogenes is a type of bacteria that thrives in certain foods, especially unpasteurised dairy products, deli meats, and raw vegetables. Listeria can even grow in cold environments like refrigerators, unlike other pathogens, making it difficult to control in processed foods and food storage.

The bacteria can cause a range of symptoms depending upon the health status of the individuals. Healthy individuals may experience mild or no symptoms at all, while the vulnerable population such as pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals, are more susceptible to severe outcomes which can be life-threatening as well.

Listeria Infection Causes

The primary cause of listeriosis is the consumption of food contaminated with Listeria bacteria. Foods commonly associated with Listeria contamination include:

Unpasteurised dairy products: Listeria can be present in raw milk or products made from it, such as soft cheeses like feta, brie, and camembert.

Processed meats: Deli meats, hot dogs, and pâtés may be home to Listeria bacteria, especially if they are not stored or handled properly.

Smoked seafood: Cold-smoked fish and seafood products can be contaminated with the bacteria.

Unwashed produce: Fruits and vegetables that are not thoroughly cleaned can also carry Listeria.

Listeria Infection Symptoms

Individuals with listeriosis can show a variety of symptoms. They include:

  • Fever

  • Muscle aches

  • Nausea

  • Diarrhea

These symptoms are often mild in healthy individuals, but in more severe cases, particularly for those at higher risk, the infection can spread beyond the gut and become life-threatening. In severe cases, symptoms may include:

  • Headache

  • Stiff neck

  • Confusion

  • Loss of balance

  • Convulsions

For pregnant women, the risk is higher, as Listeria can cause miscarriages, stillbirths, or premature delivery. However, pregnant women may only experience mild flu-like symptoms, making it difficult to detect the infection without medical consultation.

Listeria Infection Prevention

Preventing Listeria infection largely revolves around food safety practices:

  • Cook deli meats thoroughly before consumption, especially for vulnerable populations.

  • Avoid unpasteurised dairy products, including milk and cheeses.

  • Wash raw vegetables thoroughly before eating.

  • Practice good hygiene in food preparation areas to prevent cross-contamination.

Listeria Infection Treatment

Treatment of Listeria infection depends upon the severity of illness. For healthy individuals with mild symptoms, no specific treatment is required as the body can recover on its own. On the other hand, individuals with severe cases need prompt medical interventions. Antibiotics are the primary treatment for severe Listeria infections. Pregnant women diagonised with Listeria can be treated with antibiotics to prevent transmission to the unborn child. However, if the infection spread to the nervous system, more aggressive treatment and hospitalisation may be required.

Listeria infection is a potentially severe foodborne illness that continues to be a public health concern, especially with recent outbreaks in the US. Thus, understanding its causes, symptomps and treatment is crucial for managing the risk factors. Individuals with higher risk must practice food safety and seek medical attention before any delay.

(Disclaimer: This article is written for an informative purpose and should not be substituted for medical advice. Kindly consult your doctor before trying any tips.)

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 10, 2024 02:27 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).