If the infection spreads to the nervous system, symptoms such as headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or convulsions can occur. While infected pregnant women may experience only mild, flu-like illness, the mother's illness can be transmitted to the fetus through the placenta. This can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or serious health problems for her newborn child. It may take up to 8 weeks for someone to become ill. Listeriosis is successfully treated with antibiotics.
Animals can carry Listeria monocytogenes in their intestines without becoming sick.
As a result, the bacteria may be spread to meat and dairy products. If you cannot reheat these foods, do not eat them. Do not drink raw, unpasteurized milk or eat foods made from it. Do not eat soft cheeses such as feta, Brie, Camembert, or blue-veined varieties. Wash hands and surfaces often with hot, soapy water.