Listeriosis

What can be done to prevent the infection?

Pregnant women who are found to have Listeria may be given antibiotics to keep it from spreading to their babies.

Pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems should avoid unpasteurized milk or milk products. They should eat meat only if it is well-cooked. Everyone should wash fruits and vegetables well before eating them.

What are the long-term effects of the infection?

Listeriosis can cause serious health problems in newborns and people with weakened immune systems.

What are the risks to others?

Listeriosis is generally not contagious from person to person. However, a pregnant woman can pass it to her baby.