Listeria is a serious bacterial infection caused by eating contaminated food. Symptoms typically appear within a few days to weeks after exposure.
The bacteria Listeria monocytogenes enters your body through contaminated food and multiplies in the intestines before spreading to other organs. The infection, called listeriosis, can cause severe complications, especially in vulnerable individuals.
Listeria primarily comes from:
According to the CDC, pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk.
Symptoms usually appear within 2 weeks of eating contaminated food. They include fever, muscle aches, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues. Severe cases can lead to hospitalization, and in rare instances, death.
Many people confuse listeria with other foodborne illnesses like salmonella. Unlike salmonella, listeria can grow even in refrigerated temperatures, making it particularly dangerous. Pregnant women are 10 times more likely to get listeriosis than the general population.
Antibiotics like ampicillin are often prescribed to treat listeriosis. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required. Pregnant women who contract listeria are given antibiotics to prevent harm to the fetus. Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the infection and the individual's health.