Listeriosis

Description

A serious infection usually caused by eating food contaminated with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. The disease primarily affects pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

Common Symptoms

• Fever, muscle aches, nausea, diarrhea. If the infection spreads to the nervous system, symptoms may include headache, stiff neck, confusion, and convulsions. Pregnant women typically experience only mild, flu-like symptoms, but the infection can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth.

Common Causes

• Eating food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes bacteria, commonly found in unpasteurized dairy products, deli meats, and fresh produce.

Treatment Information