Listeria monocytogenes
Listeria Monocytogenes: A Stealthy Pathogen with Devastating Consequences
Description
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause severe infections in humans and animals. It is found in a variety of environments, including soil, water, and food. Listeria monocytogenes is often associated with foodborne illnesses, particularly those involving dairy products, deli meats, and produce.
Associated Diseases
Listeria monocytogenes can cause a range of infections, including:
- Listeriosis: A serious infection that can affect pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. It can lead to meningitis, bloodstream infections, and stillbirth.
- Gastroenteritis: A common foodborne illness that causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.
- Sepsis: A life-threatening infection that can cause organ failure and death.
Did you Know ?
- Listeriosis is a rare but severe foodborne illness, with an estimated 1,600 cases and 250 deaths reported in the United States annually.
- Pregnant women are 10 times more likely to develop listeriosis than non-pregnant women.
- Consumption of contaminated food is the primary risk factor for listeriosis.
