Listeriosis is an infection that is caused by bacterium called listeria monocytogens. This is a food borne illness as it is commonly caused by ingesting foods contaminated with listeria.
Listeriosis will often exhibit some flu-like symptoms including diarrhea and aching muscles. Generally, healthy individuals including children and adults will only occasionally become infected. Listeriosis is more common among individuals with weakened immune systems such as pregnant women. If infected, listeriosis can be treated using antibiotics. Under certain circumstances, listeriosis can lead to death, but this too is more common among individuals with additional medical conditions.
Listeriosis can be prevented by stopping the spread of the listeria bacteria. To learn more about listeria, including prevention techniques, please click here.