Diseases

listeria infections

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Overview

Listeriosis is a serious infection caused by the germ Listeria monocytogenes. People usually become ill with listeriosis after eating contaminated food. The disease primarily affects pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms

  • nausea
  • diarrhea
  • fever
  • chills
  • muscle aches

Causes

  • raw vegetables that have been contaminated from the soil or from contaminated manure used as fertilizer
  • contaminated meat
  • unpasteurized milk or foods made with unpasteurized milk

Risk factors

  • pregnant women and their babies
  • people who have weak immune systems

Diagnosis

  • blood tests.
  • urine or spinal fluid will be tested as well.

Medicines used

Frequently asked questions

What is listeria infections?

Listeriosis is a serious infection caused by the germ Listeria monocytogenes. People usually become ill with listeriosis after eating contaminated food. The disease primarily affects pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

What are the symptoms of listeria infections?

nausea, diarrhea, fever, chills, muscle aches

What causes listeria infections?

raw vegetables that have been contaminated from the soil or from contaminated manure used as fertilizer; contaminated meat; unpasteurized milk or foods made with unpasteurized milk

Which medicines are used for listeria infections?

penicillin g

Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app

Open the complete reference, check multi-drug interactions and use dosing tools in the MediHelp app.

Browse A–Z · Diseases