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Listeriosis in Austria--report of an outbreak in 1986
F Allerberger1, J P Guggenbichler
1Federal Public Health Laboratory Innsbruck, Austria.
Abstract:
In 1986 Listeria monocytogenes was isolated from various specimens of 28 patients in Austria: 24 were newborn infants, 4 patients were adults (25-73 years). All four adult patients and five of 20 mothers had consumed unpasteurized milk. Nine of 20 mothers and two of four adult patients had received vegetables from biologic agriculture. The consumption of raw milk and biologically grown vegetables as possible source of infection cannot be dismissed. The fatality rate (5 of 28) was remarkably low; in our experience there was no difference in the therapeutic outcome between the use of a combination of ampicillin or penicillin with an aminoglycoside or of amplicillin alone; all were effective.
Insights
Listeria monocytogenes infections in Austria were linked to unpasteurized milk and organic produce. Treatment outcomes were similar for ampicillin alone or combined with aminoglycosides, showing effective Listeria monocytogenes management.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Listeria monocytogenes is a significant pathogen, particularly in vulnerable populations like neonates.
- Foodborne transmission routes require ongoing investigation to prevent outbreaks.
- Previous studies highlight the importance of food safety in Listeria monocytogenes control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the sources and clinical outcomes of Listeria monocytogenes infections in Austrian patients.
- To evaluate the role of unpasteurized milk and biologically grown vegetables in Listeria monocytogenes transmission.
- To assess the efficacy of different antibiotic treatment regimens for Listeria monocytogenes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 28 Listeria monocytogenes cases in Austria (1986).
- Patient data collection including age, clinical presentation, and dietary history.
- Review of treatment protocols and patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- Listeria monocytogenes was isolated from 28 patients, predominantly newborn infants (24/28).
- Consumption of unpasteurized milk and biologically grown vegetables was reported by several infected adults and mothers.
- A low fatality rate (5/28) was observed, with no significant difference in therapeutic outcomes between ampicillin alone and ampicillin/penicillin with aminoglycoside combinations.
Conclusions:
- Unpasteurized milk and biologically grown vegetables are potential sources of Listeria monocytogenes infection.
- Ampicillin alone or in combination with aminoglycosides demonstrated effectiveness in treating Listeria monocytogenes infections.
- Prompt diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic therapy are crucial for managing Listeria monocytogenes, even in high-risk groups.