Listeria is a bacterium that causes a serious infection caused by eating contaminated food. The actual disease is called Listeriosis. In the United States, approximately 2,500 people are infected with Listeriosis each year. Approximately 500 of those cases result in death, according to the Center for Disease Control. These bacteria are found in soil, water, and wild or domestic animals.
Symptoms
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Fever
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Muscle Aches
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Nausea
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Diarrhea
Symptoms If infection spreads to nervous system
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Headache
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Stiff neck
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Confusion
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Loss of Balance
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Convulsions
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Who is at risk?
Most healthy people who are exposed to Listeria don't get the infection or become ill. Those at highest risk for the infection are: seniors, pregnant women, newborns, persons with weakened immune systems.
Caution to Pregnant Women
According to the Center for Disease Control, about a third of all Listeriosis deaths occur during pregnancy. If the pregnant woman is infected during pregnancy, this could lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or the newborn can be infected.
Prevention
Be sure to wash your hands and utensils that have come in contact with raw foods such as meats and vegetables. Always cook and store foods at proper temperatures.