Listeria
Listeria is a bacteria found in soil, water and animals. It also can be present in raw milk and foods made from raw milk.
Listeria
Listeria is a bacteria found in soil, water and animals. It also can be present in raw milk and foods made from raw milk. Listeria is killed by cooking and pasteurization.
The incubation period for listeria is between 3 and 70 days, meaning somebody exposed to the bacteria may not exhibit symptoms for more than two months. The bacteria most commonly affects pregnant women, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms of Listeriosis
The most common symptoms of listeriosis are fever, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramping, muscle aches, neck pain/stiffness, back pain, convulsions and confusion.
Frequently Asked Questions About Listeria and Listeriosis
Below are answers to your frequently asked questions about listeria and listeriosis.
How can I protect myself from listeria?
- Do not drink raw milk (unpasteurized) and do not eat foods that contain raw milk
- Clean and rinse raw produce under running tap water
- Store uncooked meats, poultry and seafood separate from vegetables, fruits, cooked foods and ready-to-eat foods
- Fully cook raw meats and seafood
- Maintain a clean kitchen environment by washing hands, knives, countertops and cutting boards after handling and preparing uncooked foods
What should I do if I believe I have been infected by listeriosis?
You should seek immediate medical attention. Prompt intervention and antibiotics can resolve the infection and, in pregnant women, protect the unborn child.
For free answers to your questions about Listeriosis and other foodborne illnesses, please call us toll-free at 1-800-883-8888 or complete this online contact form.
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