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 takes an average of 3 weeks for someone to become ill. Listeriosis can be 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. Thoroughly reheating food can help kill any bacteria that might be present. If you cannot reheat these foods, do not eat them. Also wash cutting boards, dishes, and utensils. Thorough washing helps eliminate any bacteria that might get on your hands or other surfaces from food before it is reheated.