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Listeria monocytogenes

bacterium

Quick Summary

Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that causes the disease listeriosis. This bacterium can be found in humans, animals, and various environmental sources like soil and water. Most human infections occur through consuming contaminated food, particularly unpasteurized milk and soil-contaminated produce.1

Listeriosis typically affects individuals with weakened immune systems, including newborns, pregnant women, and the elderly. Symptoms can range from mild, flu-like illness to severe conditions like meningitis, septicemia (blood poisoning), and endocarditis. In pregnant women, it can lead to miscarriage or premature birth. Fortunately, listeriosis is treatable with antibiotics.1

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3 Britannica Sources
  1. listeriosis
  2. listeria
  3. foodborne illness

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