LISTERIA

(Listeriosis)
Listeria are bacteria that can
contaminate many foods. People
who eat those foods can get
infected with Listeria. The infection
is called listeriosis.

WHAT IS LISTERIOSIS?
Listeriosis is a serious infection usually
caused by eating food contaminated with
the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. An
estimated 1,600 people get listeriosis each
year, and about 260 die. The infection is
most likely to sicken pregnant women and
their newborns, adults aged 65 or older,
and people with weakened immune
systems.

Symptoms of Listeriosis

Mild symptoms may include a fever, muscle

aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If
the more severe form of listeriosis
develops, symptoms may include headache,
stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and
convulsions.

How is infection diagnosed

and treated?
Infection is usually diagnosed when a laboratory
test detects Listeria in body tissue or fluid, such
as blood, spinal fluid, or the placenta.
Treatment depends on the kind and severity of a
person’s illness. Most Listeria infections are
treated with antibiotics. People with diarrhea
should drink plenty of fluids.
.
TO PREVENT LISTERIA:
DO NOT EAT!!!
Unpasteurized soft cheese, such as queso
fresco and brie
Raw (unpasteurized) milk, yogurt, and ice
cream
Unheated cheeses sliced at a del
Unheated deli meat, cold cuts, hot dogs, and
fermented or dry sausages
Premade deli salads, such as coleslaw and
potato, tuna, or chicken salad
Refrigerated smoked fish

TO PREVENT LISTERIA:
EAT THESE INSTEAD!!!
Pasteurized soft cheeses heated to an
internal temperature of 165°F or until
steaming hot
Deli-sliced cheeses heated to 165°F or
until steaming hot
Hard cheeses, such as cheddar and
parmesan
Cottage cheese, cream cheese, string
cheese, and feta
Pasteurized milk, yogurt, and ice cream

REFRENCES:
Frequently Asked Questions about Listeria.
(2023, August 23). Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention.