Listeriosis
Definition
Listeriosis is an illness caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes that is acquired by eating contaminated food. The organism can spread to the blood stream and central nervous system. In women who contract listeriosis while pregnant, the disease often causes miscarriage or stillbirth.
Description
Listeriosis is caused by an infection with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. These bacteria can be carried by many animals and birds, and they have been found in soil, water, sewage, and animal feed. Five out of every 100 people carry Listeria monocytogenes in their intestines. Listeriosis is considered a food-borne illness because most people are probably infected after eating food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. However, a woman can...
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