The topic Listeria Infection you are seeking is a synonym, or alternative name, or is closely related to the medical condition Listeriosis.

Quick Summary:

• Listeriosis is caused by Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that commonly resides in the soil and water. It is a foodborne disease that spreads through contaminated raw vegetables, meat, unpasteurized milk and milk products, and certain processed foods
• Although the total number of cases of Listeriosis may be lower than Salmonella or E. coli infections, the rate of death is significantly higher. The bacterium is one of the most deadly and adaptable microbe of those encountered by the healthcare industry
• A significant feature of L. monocytogenes is its ability to survive and grow in low temperatures. Thus, the bacteria can grow in contaminated food items, even in the refrigerator/cold storage
• Generally, healthy individuals are not seriously infected on consumption of contaminated food. However, individuals with compromised immune systems (such as the elderly, HIV/AIDS-infected individuals, and those on immunosuppressant drugs) are at a high risk of serious, life-threatening illness with Listeriosis
• The signs and symptoms of Listeria infection may vary from mild to severe. It could include diarrhea, nausea, fever, and muscle aches. The disease can spread to the heart, lungs, brain, or blood resulting in severe complications
• Generally, pregnant women with Listeria may have mild symptoms. However, they can transmit the infection through the placenta to the fetus, causing life-threatening health issues in the unborn child
• In order to diagnose Listeriosis, a healthcare provider would typically order blood tests. If the disease has spread, urine or spinal fluid tests may be required to evaluate the affected individual
• The potential complications from Listeriosis include septicemia and meningitis. In pregnant woman, the condition may result in miscarriages during early pregnancy. In later stages of pregnancy, the condition may cause stillbirths or potentially fatal health issues
• Individuals with mild Listeriosis may not need any treatment. However, those with serious illnesses need antibiotics therapy. Moreover, pregnant women need prompt attention, to protect the fetus from severe effects of the disease
• Personal hygiene, washing one’s hands before cooking or eating, washing raw vegetables, and cooking meat to high temperatures are some known methods for preventing Listeriosis infection
• The prognosis for Listeriosis is generally unfavorable in newborns and individuals who have a compromised immune system. Normal, healthy individuals recover from the illness without any complications, and the prognosis is excellent

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