Are you looking for it services & solution provider?

Ashima Sharda Mahindra • 06 Aug 2024

Listeria Spreads Across US, Canada; What Is It and How Do You Know If You Have It?

Caused by the germ Listeria monocytogenes, listeria usually contaminates food

Over the last few months – there has been a major recall of many food items across the United States and Canada - including vegetables, deli meats, and almond milk for the same foodborne contaminant – Listeria. Caused by the germ Listeria monocytogenes, the condition causes listeriosis - a deadly infection. According to experts, the bacteria is commonly found in nature, especially in soil, groundwater, rotting vegetation, and animal feces.
Most people get listeriosis from eating contaminated foods.
Recently, supermarket Boar recalled all their liverwurst products after epidemiologic and laboratory data showed that meats sliced at its delis, including Listeria, were contaminated with Listeria and making people sick.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, two deaths have been reported, while 28 people have been hospitalized so far. The Canadian government’s public health notice earlier this month said 12 cases had been reported and two of them resulted in deaths.
Here, read a breakdown of what to know about Listeria, how to avoid it, and what to do if your household is possibly contaminated, per the Food and Drug Administration’s recommendations.

In what foods is listeriosis commonly found?

Doctors say contaminated foods are the most common cause of listeriosis infections, a few common ones include:
  • Hot dogs
  • Deli meats
  • Fresh vegetables
  • Fresh fruits, especially melons
  • Unpasteurized dairy products
Since L. monocytogenes is unique from many other foodborne illnesses, it can easily survive and even multiply in low temperatures, including refrigerators and freezers. The bacteria can multiply to dangerous levels during storage.

Signs and symptoms of listeriosis

A few signs and symptoms of listeriosis, include:
  • High fever
  • Chills
  • Severe headache
  • Upset stomach
  • Diarrhoea
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Muscle aches
  • Confusion
  • Loss of balance
  • Convulsions
Doctors say severe listeriosis infection spreads to your bloodstream and brain leading to life-threatening and deadly conditions like sepsis, meningitis, and encephalitis. The condition is especially dangerous for pregnant women, who may be susceptible to infection due to low immunity levels.

Ways to prevent listeriosis

Since the bacteria survives and even thrives in cold temperature conditions, it is important to 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:
  • Wash the inside walls and shelves of the refrigerator properly, apart from kitchen items like cutting boards, countertops, and utensils where Listeria may be present.
  • Sanitize the surfaces properly with a solution of one tablespoon of chlorine bleach in a bucket of hot water.
  • Dry with a clean towel
  • Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after cleaning the infected area.

Can listeria be treated?

Doctors say there is a cure for listeriosis, with the help of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor. According to experts, if you are pregnant, 65 years of age or older, or have a weakened immune system, you can be given low doses of antibiotics, including ampicillin. Your doctor may also prescribe medication to manage specific symptoms, including nausea and vomiting.
If you have mild symptoms, you may not need treatment. However, if a baby is born with a listeriosis infection, the doctor will give them antibiotics shortly after birth.
Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Health and around the world.