Tag: food poisoning

Listeriosis, a foodborne infection

Ice cream from a plant was contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, causing illness and deaths. Listeriosis is a foodborne illness caused by this bacteria, present in raw and processed foods. Symptoms include fever, chills, and upset stomach. Treatment involves antibiotics. Pregnant women, older adults, and those with weak immune systems are most at risk.

Ice cream from an ice cream plant may have been contaminated with a bacteria, Listeria monocytogenes. Although few people have been affected, at least 3 deaths have been connected to this infection.

What is Listeria?

Listeriosis is a foodborne illness caused by Listeria monocytogenes, bacteria found in soil and water. It can be in a variety of raw foods as well as in processed foods and foods made from unpasteurized milk. Listeria is unlike many other germs because it can grow even in the cold temperature of the refrigerator.

This illustration depicts a three-dimensional (3D), computer-generated image of a grouping of Listeria monocytogenes bacteria. The artistic recreation was based upon scanning electron microscopic (SEM) imagery.Illustrator: Jennifer Oosthuizen, from the CDC, public domain

Symptoms include fever and chills, headache, upset stomach and vomiting. Treatment is with antibiotics.

Anyone can get the illness. But it is most likely to affect pregnant women and unborn babies, older adults, and people with weak immune systems. To reduce your risk:

  • Use precooked and ready-to-eat foods as soon as you can
  • Avoid raw milk and raw milk products
  • Heat ready-to-eat foods and leftovers until they are steaming hot
  • Wash fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Avoid rare meat and refrigerated smoked seafood

Exploring the HEART of Health

I’d love for you to follow this blog. I share information and inspiration to help you turn health challenges into health opportunities.

Add your name to the subscribe box to be notified of new posts by email. Click the link to read the post and browse other content. It’s that simple. No spam.

I enjoy seeing who is new to Watercress Words. When you subscribe, I will visit your blog or website. Thanks and see you next time.

Please visit these pages to learn more about me and this blog.

Dr. Aletha