Listeriosis is an infection that usually occurs as a result of consuming contaminated food with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. This bacterium can be found in soil, water and animal feces. Unlike most bacteria, Listeria monocytogenes can often survive and multiply at a temperature below 5 ° C. This means that there is a possibility the bacteria to multiply in foods stored in the refrigerator and reach a level sufficient to cause infection.

SYMPTOMS

In adults and children with healthy immune system, the disease is usually manifested with mild symptoms lasting a few days such as:

• • High temperature above 38 ° C

• • Nausea

• • Fever

• • Diarrhea

• • Muscle pain

If the infection swept through the nervous system and cause meningoencephalitis, then it is a severe listeriosis, in which, besides the above, there are the following symptoms and signs:

• • Severe headaches

• • Confusion and disturbance of consciousness

• • Stiff neck

• • Disruption of the balance

• • Convulsions

In this case is required urgent medical assistance, appropriate antibiotic therapy, as it may cause a lethal outcome.

PREVENTION

In order to prevent listeriosis, observe the following tips:

• • Before you start preparing food, wash your hands well with warm water and soap. It is desirable to use two cutting boards while browning – one for fresh vegetables and one for meat and dairy products

• • When you finish, wash the accessories (knives, cutting boards,..) you used for cooking

• • Keep food in the refrigerator at 4 °C and lower. Listeria monocytogenes can be reproduced at a lower temperature, so always keep your fridge clean

• • If you are unsure about the quality and food safety, better remove and does not consume it

• • Wash thoroughly the fresh vegetables and fruit