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What Is It and How Do You Know If You Have It?: Understanding Listeria and How to Avoid It

What Is Listeria?

is a bacteria that can cause disease in humans and animals. It can be found in multiple places in the environment, including soil, water, decaying vegetation and animals. When food comes into contact with these environments, it can increase the risk of Listeria to spread. Those infected with Listeria–also known as listeriosis–may start experiencing symptoms within a few hours to as long as two to three days after infection.

What Are the Symptoms of Listeriosis?

Common signs of listeriosis are typically mild. Symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. These symptoms can last from days to several weeks, depending on the individual.

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In more severe cases, symptoms can include headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance and convulsions. Sensitive groups like young children, those who are pregnant, age 65 or older or immunocompromised individuals are most at risk of experiencing these serious signs.

How to Prevent Foodborne Illness At Home

The bacteria can survive and even thrive in refrigerated conditions. That’s why it is important if you have a recalled product stored in your refrigerator, to dispose of it and dispose of any foods that may have been in contact with the contaminated product. After removing any potentially infectious material, follow the below steps, per the FDA guidelines:

1. Wash the inside walls and shelves of the refrigerator, as well as any cutting boards, countertops, utensils and any other surfaces where Listeria may be present.
2. Then, sanitize these surfaces with a solution of one tablespoon chlorine bleach to one gallon of hot water. Be sure to dry with a clean towel that was not already used.
3. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after cleaning the infected area.

The Bottom Line

Listeria infection is typically non life-threatening, but it can be serious for those in at-risk groups. That’s why it’s important to avoid spread of any foodborne illness by washing your hands regularly, cleaning any produce before serving or eating and wiping down any surfaces after preparing food. Talk to your healthcare provider immediately if you have consumed a recalled product and are experiencing any symptoms of Listeria.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Listeria deadly?

   For sensitive groups like those who are immunocompromised, pregnant or over the age of 65, Listeria can be a deadly illness. It is particularly dangerous to those pregnant as they are about 10 times more likely to get Listeria than other healthy adults, and they can spread the disease to their baby.Talk to your doctor ASAP if you are experiencing any signs of foodborne illness.

2. Can pets spread Listeria to their owners?

   Yes, if your pet eats food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, they can spread it in the home environment, including to their human owners.

3. Where can I get updates on the latest recalls?

   The FDA and FSIS have dedicated recall pages so you can stay up to date on the latest safety alerts..

   own recall page at EatingWell so you can be most informed on the most relevant announcements.

Conclusion:

Listeriosis is a serious foodborne illness caused by the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. While it is often mild, it can be life-threatening for certain groups of people, such as young children, pregnant women, and people aged 65 or older. To prevent listeriosis, it is essential to store food properly, wash hands regularly, clean surfaces, and dispose of any potentially contaminated products. If you have been exposed to a recalled product and are experiencing symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.