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Updated: Aug 13, 2026

Listeria monocytogenes Infection of the Brain
05:02

Listeria monocytogenes Infection of the Brain

Published on: October 2, 2018

[Neonatal infection with Listeria monocytogenes: rare, but serious]

M van Stuijvenberg1, L Spanjaard, K A Bergman

  • 1Universitair Medisch Centrum Groningen, locatie Beatrix Kinderkliniek, afd. Neonatologie, Postbus 30.000, 9700 RB Groningen. m.van.stuijvenberg@bkk.umcg.nl

Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde
|January 31, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Neonatal invasive Listeria monocytogenes infection is rare but serious, with two of three infants dying. Maternal consumption of unpasteurised milk was a risk factor, highlighting the need for dietary advice during pregnancy.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal infections
  • Microbiology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Listeria monocytogenes is a pathogen that can cause severe invasive infections in neonates.
  • Neonatal listeriosis can lead to significant morbidity and mortality.
  • Understanding transmission routes and risk factors is crucial for prevention.

Observation:

  • A case series identified three infants with invasive Listeria monocytogenes infection between 1993 and 2003.
  • Two of the three infants died during the neonatal period.
  • Maternal consumption of unpasteurised cow's milk was identified as a potential source in one fatal case.

Findings:

  • The incidence of neonatal invasive listeriosis in The Netherlands is approximately 1.3 per 100,000 live births annually.
  • This incidence rate has remained stable over the past two decades.
  • Maternal fever preceding parturition was noted in cases of infant mortality.

Implications:

  • Pregnant women should receive clear dietary advice to avoid potentially contaminated foods, such as unpasteurised dairy products.
  • Continued vigilance and public health awareness regarding food safety are essential to prevent neonatal listeriosis.
  • Early recognition and intensive care can improve outcomes, but prevention remains paramount due to the infection's severity.

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