infection

Listeriosis

Listeriosis is a most commonly caused by Listeria monocytogenes, although L. ivanovii and L. grayi have been reported in certain cases. Listeriosis can cause severe illness, including severe , , or , sometimes resulting in lifelong harm and even death. Those at risk of severe illness are the elderly, fetuses, newborns, and those who are immunocompromised. In pregnant women, it may cause stillbirth or spontaneous abortion, and preterm birth is common. Listeriosis may cause mild, self-limiting gastroenteritis and fever in anyone.

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Symptoms — what it feels like

·, fever, headache

Causes — why it happens

·Listeria monocytogenes

How it's found

· of blood or spinal fluid

Prevention

·Safe handling and preparation of food, Pasteurisation, avoidance of soft cheese by pregnant women

Treatment

·Ampicillin, gentamicin

Complications

·Stillbirth or spontaneous abortion (pregnant women)

Outlook

·Usually self-limited

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Plain-language summary adapted from Wikipedia. Not medical advice.