Listeria monocytogenes

Description and health hazards:

Listeria monocytogenes causes a variety of symptoms in infected persons, including fever, body aches, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Severe infections may lead to complications such as meningitis or bacteremia, which may require hospitalisation. The populations most at risk are pregnant women, immunocompromised persons, young children, and the elderly. These individuals should be especially aware of the symptoms. In pregnant women, the infection can be dangerous for both the mother and the foetus.
Symptoms of listeriosis may appear between 3 and 70 days after exposure to Listeria monocytogenes. Typically, the incubation period is 1 to 4 weeks.

People who have consumed a contaminated product and are experiencing symptoms should seek medical advice and disclose their exposure. Symptoms may vary from person to person and may vary in severity depending on the extent of infection.

Which food products are affected?
The most common sources of contamination are food of animal origin, such as raw milk and unpasteurised dairy products, as well as raw meat. In addition, sliced cold meats and smoked fish may be contaminated. Products made from pasteurised milk, such as spreadable cheese or soft cheese, can also be contaminated during the manufacturing process.