Listeriosis

What is Listeriosis?

• Listeriosis is an infection caused by bacteria .

• It occurs most often in newborns, the elderly, pregnant women and those with immune system problems.

• Listeriosis may only cause a mild illness with a fever, tiredness, and headache.

• Some people (infants, the elderly and those with immune problems) may develop a more serious illness affecting the brain, which results in a severe headache, nausea and vomiting, and sometimes, coma.

• It is spread in foods such as unpasteurized milk, soft cheeses, undercooked poultry, unwashed raw vegetables, and prepared meats such as paté (ground meat spread).

• Antibiotics can be taken to kill the bacteria. See your doctor.

• Listeriosis is a risk to the baby if a pregnant woman gets infected.

• Wash all fruits and vegetables well before eating.

• Do not drink unpasteurized milk. Do not eat unpasteurized dairy products.

• Cook meat thoroughly.

• Wash hands, knives and cutting boards thoroughly after handling foods that may carry the bacteria.

• Pregnant women and those with immune system problems should avoid soft cheeses, deli meats and paté. They should cook hot dogs and left over foods until steaming hot.

 

Listeriosis is a reportable disease and must be reported to your local Medical Officer of Health

under the Health Protection and Promotion Act.