According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, listeriosis is a major public health problem. In fact, it recently became a reality for some American consumers when soft cheese manufactured by Karoun Daries was linked to this health hazard. Thirty cases of listeriosis in 10 different states were diagnosed, which resulted in 28 hospitalizations and three deaths.
Listeria is unique because it can survive in conditions that would usually kill other bacteria. It even can survive and grow in the frigid temperatures of the refrigerator, according to Foodsafety.gov.
This bacteria is found in many common foods. These can include deli meats, hot dogs, meat spreads, raw dairy products (like unpasteurized milk), soft cheese that contains unpasteurized milk (like feta, brie and camembert), raw sprouts and refrigerated smoked seafood.
Though anyone can develop this illness, some have a higher risk of developing listeriosis than others. According to the CDC, “the disease primarily affects older adults, pregnant women, newborns, and adults with weakened immune systems. However, rarely, people without these risk factors can also be affected.”
A number of symptoms can indicate listeriosis. Fever and muscle aches may appear. Diarrhea, other gastrointestinal issues, stiff neck and muscle pain can be present. Further, those affected can experience confusion, loss of balance and convulsions.
Listeriosis can cause much harm to fetuses. Therefore, those who are expecting need to be aware of this issue. According to the CDC, a pregnant woman with listeriosis is at ris for miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery or life-threatening infection of the newborn.
Symptoms of listeriosis can differ depending upon the patient. That’s why you need to know the signs.