Navigation
[TITLE]

[MESSAGE]

[BUTTONS]

Popular questions...

Content

What happens if listeriosis occurs during pregnancy?

About one in five pregnant women who have listeriosis are in real danger of experiencing premature birth, birth complications, miscarriage or stillbirth. Unborn babies and infants who contract listeriosis from their mother in the womb are at increased risk of developing complications of listeriosis.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is listeriosis?

Listeriosis is a condition caused by Listeria monocytogenes bacteria. These bacteria are widespread in nature and can be found in the soil, water and in many animals. People most often get infected with Listeria after eating food that is contaminated with the bacteria.

What are the symptoms of listeriosis?

Symptoms of listeriosis resemble those of the flu and may include fever, chills, headache, feeling unwell, muscle pain and diarrhea. If the bacteria infect the nervous system or the blood, severe listeriosis can set in. Symptoms of severe listeriosis …

How is listeriosis diagnosed?

Listeriosis is diagnosed by laboratory testing of tissue samples and blood.

How is listeriosis treated?

Listeriosis can be treated with a course of antibiotics.

Can listeriosis be cured?

Listeriosis is a curable disease, if treated quickly and correctly.

Will listeriosis clear on its own?

Most cases of listeriosis will clear after a few days. Complicated listeriosis in high-risk people requires medical attention.

Is listeriosis contagious?

Listeriosis does not pass from person to person.

How is listeriosis spread?

Listeriosis is spread via contaminated food. A pregnant woman can transmit the bacteria to her unborn baby.

Can listeriosis be prevented?

Although the chance of infection cannot be completely eliminated, listeriosis can be avoided by practicing good food-handling practices. People at risk can avoid risky foods.

Related topics

Diseases & conditions

Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin, usually occurring from a break in the skin, such as a cut, sore, scratch or burn. Skin affected by cellulitis quickly becomes red, swollen, hot and tender. Antibiotics may be needed to clear up the infection.…
Diseases & conditions

Whooping cough (pertussis)

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a very contagious disease that causes inflammation in the respiratory tract. Pertussis causes many deaths, especially among infants, but can be prevented with immunisation.…
Diseases & conditions

Tetanus

Tetanus is an infection which usually occurs when a particular bacteria contaminates an open wound. After infection, the tetanus bacteria release a toxin which attaches to nerve cells and causes muscles to spasm. Tetanus is a serious condition and can lead to death if left untreated.…
Diseases & conditions

Scarlet fever

Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection characterised by a rough, red rash that starts on one part of the body and then spreads to other areas. Other symptoms include fever, itchiness, flushing in the face and a red, swollen tongue. Scarlet fever most commonly occurs in children between two and 10 years of age.…
Diseases & conditions

Diphtheria

Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that may cause a fever, breathing difficulties and swollen lymph nodes. Without treatment, it can lead to severe complications. It is now a rare condition in developed nations due to the widespread use of the diphtheria vaccine.…
Diseases & conditions

Haemophilus influenza type B

Despite their name, Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) bacteria do not cause influenza. Hib bacteria can cause other serious diseases including pneumonia and meningitis, particularly in children under the age of five. Fortunately, Hib can be prevented with immunisation.…

About this article

Author: Lauren Donley BSc (Hons)
First answered: 19 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 14 May 2019
Rating: 4.0 out of 5
Votes: 101 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Cellulitis

×

Content goes in here.