Listeriosis: an emerging food-borne disease

Listeriosis is a serious disease acquired by ingestion of foods contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. Special populations at risk are individuals who are immunocompromised to some extent. The most common clinical findings include meningitis, septicemia, encephalitis, and intrauterine/cervical infections. Food related listeriosis is an unusual occurrence but it is now being thought of as a new, and emergent illness. Numerous types of food products have been implicated in listeriosis infections, but of particular concern are ready to eat products such as lunchmeats, hotdogs, ham/chicken salad, sausages, and roast beef. However, to ensure food safety, there are several methods employed to detect L. monocytogenes in food products and the severity of listeriosis warrants stringent guidelines in food processing facilities. Nevertheless, proper food preparation and handling must be emphasized and individuals who are at an increased risk for the disease must be apprised on how to prevent the occurrence of infection.