Disease: listeriosis
Caused by: listeria monocytogenes bacterium
Symptoms: can cause a mild flu-like illness which may not be diagnosed. Most healthy people show no symptoms. Pregnant women are at risk of stillbirth.
Treatment: successful treatment with antibiotics has been reported.
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Associated foods: soft cheese, smoked fish, chilled ready meals and sauces, deli meats. Its ability to grow at temperatures as low as 3C means it can grow in the fridge.
Source: Bag Bug Book, US Food and Drug Administration Centre.
Prevention: avoid certain foods while pregnant: cooked deli meats, soft cheese, smoked fish and salads such as coleslaw.
Safe Food Helpline: 1-850404567