There have been products such as deli meats, vegetables, dips and salsas, and plant-based milk recalled due to a recent listeria outbreak.
Listeria or Listeria monocytogenes, is a species of pathogenic or disease-causing bacteria found in moist environments, soil, water, decaying vegetation, and animal feces. It can survive and even grow under refrigeration and other food preservation measures.
Most people encounter listeria or listeriosis as a foodborne illness as it can be found in hot dogs, deli meats, fresh vegetables, fresh fruits especially melons, and unpasteurized dairy products. These foods have the highest risk of listeria contamination. However, any food that is improperly handled or prepared can be affected.
The listeria bacteria is unique compared to other types of bacteria because it survives and multiplies in low temperatures, including refrigerators and freezers. It can multiply to dangerous levels during storage. It also doesn’t change the smell, taste, or texture when it contaminates food like other bacteria.
Most people get listeriosis from eating contaminated foods. The listeriosis incubation period (the time between when you first get infected and when you first show symptoms) varies. It usually takes one to two weeks. But it can be as short as a couple of days or as long as three months.
The symptoms of a listeria infection include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Muscle aches
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
If the listeria infection spreads to your nervous system, symptoms may include:
- Headache
- Stiff neck
- Confusion or changes in alertness
- Loss of balance
- Convulsions
Those at risk of severe infection from listeria include:
- Pregnant women
- People older than 65 years old
- People with weakened immune systems
- People suffering from chronic diseases
A blood test is often the most effective way to determine whether you have a listeria infection. Samples of urine and spinal fluid may also be tested.
The treatment of listeria infection varies depending on the severity of the signs and symptoms. Most people with mild symptoms require no treatment at all. More serious listeria infections can be treated with antibiotics.
Some ways to prevent a listeria infection include:
1) Keeping things clean- wash your hands thoroughly with warm, soapy water before and after handling or preparing food. After cooking, use hot, soapy water to wash the utensils, cutting boards, and other food preparation services.
2) Scrub raw vegetables- clean raw vegetables with a scrub brush or vegetable brush under plenty of running water.
3) Cook your food thoroughly- Use a food thermometer to make sure your meat, poultry, and egg dishes are cooked to a safe temperature.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of a listeria infection you can see a gastroenterologist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 206-7001. If you or someone you are with are experiencing an emergency, call 911 immediately.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.