Listeria infection is a rare infection acquired by infected food. The bacteria Listeria monocytogenes is found in soil and therefore it is in most animals. People acquire this bacterium by foodstuffs, especially soft cheese, milk, meat pate, or salads, prepared for a longer period. The risk is higher if these foodstuffs are kept in inappropriate conditions. Bacteria proliferate in the intestines and spread in the blood flow. Thus, they can infect other organs.

 

Causes

Listeria infection is caused by the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes.

 

Symptoms

Listeria infection symptoms differ individually. In adults, the infection may come and go without noticing it, although some of them can develop symptoms similar to flu (high temperature), sore throat, headache and muscle pains).

 

Risk factors

The risk factor for listeria infection consumption of soft cheese and meat pate. Age, gender, and genetics are not important factors.

 

Complications

In the elderly or those with compromised immune system, for e.g. HIV-infected, as well as with patients takind immunosuppressive drugs, listeria infection can cause meningitis.

In pregnant women, the infection can be transferred to the water or even the baby, that can further cause miscarriage, or the newborn baby may have this infection, or still born baby. The infected babies that survive are frequently premature.