Listeriosis is one of the many foodborne illnesses that people need to be aware of. It is a bacterial infection caused by consuming contaminated food. A listeria infection is not a common, everyday occurrence, but illnesses and even serious outbreaks do occur from time to time. What are the symptoms of listeriosis? How do you know it is time to take a trip to the doctor’s office for treatment?
Signs of a Listeria Infection
It is not always easy to recognize this foodborne illness. It can take about one month, possibly longer, for signs of an infection to show up. This can make it difficult to connect the symptoms of listeriosis with the contaminated meat, cheese, or even produce that you may have eaten last month. Also, the symptoms experienced by one person may vary from what another person experiences.
The following are all the possible symptoms of a listeria infection.
Fever Strong headaches Stiff neck Muscle pains Nausea Vomiting Diarrhea Confusion
It is possible to have mild symptoms of to mistake listeriosis for a case of influenza. If symptoms are severe, if there is any possible connection with contaminated food, or if you are in a high risk category, then see your doctor right away.
Who Is at Risk?
Anyone can become infected by the listeria bacteria, although certain people are more at risk. Pregnant women in particular should avoid food that may be contaminated, such as hot dogs, deli meats, unpasteurized dairy products or smoked seafood. A pregnant woman may only experience mild symptoms of listeriosis, but the baby can end up with a life-threatening illness, making this a very real danger for an unborn fetus.
People with weakened immune systems and the elderly should also be particularly wary of what foods they eat and how the body reacts. Deli meats and smoked seafood can be cooked to eliminate any bacteria on the food. Fruits and vegetables are rarely the cause of a listeria infection, but they can be contaminated through the soil or from fertilizers. Avoid foods that have been recalled if an outbreak occurs.
Seeing Your Doctor
Your doctor can have laboratory tests done to check for an infection. Listeriosis can then be treated with antibiotics. If there is any concern of a possible infection, especially if you have eaten recalled food from a recent outbreak or if you are in a higher risk group, always see your doctor. Listeria is not something to be afraid of, but it is something to be aware of.
Sources
Mayo Clinic
New York State Department of Health