CHECK-UP:I've recently heard of someone who was infected with listeria. Is it a serious condition?
Listeria infection or listeriosis is a food-borne illness caused by the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. Found in soil, water and in some wild and domestic animals, the bacteria can be transferred to raw foods, processed foods and foods made from unpasteurised milk. Listeriosis is caused by eating food contaminated with the bacteria. For most healthy people exposed to listeria, symptoms are usually mild and may be mistaken for other illnesses, such as flu. However, for others such as pregnant women and their unborn babies, older adults, and those with compromised immune systems, it can be a serious and even fatal illness. Symptoms of listeria infection include fever and chills, muscle aches and headache as well as diarrhoea, vomiting and upset stomach. Symptoms may begin a few days after eating contaminated food, or, in some cases, it may be as long as two months before the first signs of infection.
What are the risks if left untreated?
If listeria infection spreads to the nervous system, signs and symptoms may include headache, stiff neck, confusion or changes in alertness. Loss of balance and convulsions may also be experienced. During pregnancy, although listeria infection may cause only mild signs and symptoms in the mother, the consequences for the baby may be life threatening. Signs and symptoms of a listeria infection in a newborn can be subtle, but may include little interest in feeding, irritability, fever and vomiting. A blood test is often used to diagnose listeria infection, while in some cases, samples of spinal fluid, urine or the amniotic fluid that surrounds and protects a baby before birth may be tested as well. Prompt antibiotic treatment can help curb the effects of a listeria infection.
What can be done to minimise the risk of contracting listeriosis?
Generally speaking, you can reduce your risk of contracting listeriosis by using pre-cooked and ready-to-eat foods as soon as you can, and avoiding unpasteurised milk and milk products. If reheating ready-to-eat foods and leftovers, make sure they are steaming hot before eating. All fresh fruits and vegetables should be washed, and rare meat and uncooked seafood should be avoided. Those at particular risk should avoid eating soft cheeses (unless made using pasteurised milk), luncheon meats, meat spreads and refrigerated smoked seafood.
