Over the past few months, several foods have been recalled in the United States and Canada — including vegetables, deli meats and almond milk — because they were found to contain the same foodborne contaminant — listeria. Listeria monocytogenes, This condition causes a fatal infection called listeriosis. According to experts, this bacteria is commonly found in nature, especially in soil, groundwater, rotting vegetation and animal feces.

Most people get listeriosis by eating contaminated food.

Recently the supermarket Boer recalled all of its liverwurst products after epidemiological and laboratory data showed that cuts of meat including Listeria sold in its deli stores were contaminated with Listeria and making people sick.

There have been two deaths, while 28 people have been hospitalised so far, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. A Government of Canada public health notice earlier this month said there had been 12 cases and two of those had died.

Read here, detailed information about this ListeriaHere’s how to avoid it, and what to do if your home is possibly contaminated, according to recommendations from the Food and Drug Administration.

What foods is listeriosis commonly found in?

Doctors say that contaminated foods are the most common cause of listeriosis infection, with some of the common causes being:

• hot dogs
• Deli meats
• fresh vegetables
• fresh fruits, especially melons
• Unpasteurized dairy products

since L. monocytogenes It is different from many other foodborne illnesses in that it can easily survive and grow in low temperatures, including refrigerators and freezers. The bacteria can grow to dangerous levels during storage.

Signs and Symptoms of Listeriosis

Here are some of the signs and symptoms of listeriosis:

• High fever
• Feeling cold
• severe headache
• upset stomach
• Diarrhea
• nausea and vomiting
• Muscle pain
• Confusion
• Loss of balance
• convulsions

Doctors say that severe listeriosis infection spreads to your bloodstream and brain causing life-threatening and life-threatening conditions like sepsis, meningitis and encephalitis. The condition is especially dangerous for pregnant women, who may be more susceptible to the infection due to lower immunity levels.

Ways to Prevent Listeriosis

Since bacteria survive and even thrive in cold temperature conditions, it is important to destroy any food that has come into contact with the contaminated product. After removing any potentially infectious material, follow the steps below according to FDA guidelines:

• Clean the inside walls and shelves of the refrigerator thoroughly, except for kitchen items such as cutting boards, countertops, and utensils. Listeria may be present.
• Clean surfaces thoroughly with a solution of one teaspoon chlorine bleach in a bucket of warm 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.

Is listeria curable?

Doctors say listeriosis is treatable with a course 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 may be prescribed a lower dose of antibiotics, including ampicillin. Your doctor may also prescribe medication to manage specific symptoms, including nausea and vomiting.

If your symptoms are mild, you may not need treatment. However, if the baby is born with a listeriosis infection, the doctor will give him antibiotics immediately after birth.

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