What is listeriosis?
Listeriosis is an infection caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. It is usually acquired by eating food contaminated with this bacterium.
Who is at greater risk for listeriosis?
Anyone can become ill from eating food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. Certain populations are at a higher risk of experiencing severe illness, including pregnant women and their unborn children, newborns, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
What are the symptoms of listeriosis?
In healthy people, symptoms of Listeria monocytogenes infection can include mild flu-like symptoms, or gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. However, in people who are more vulnerable, the infection can be severe and can lead to serious complications. People who are more vulnerable to Listeria monocytogenes infections include, pregnant women, infants, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. The incubation period (time between initial infection and first symptoms appearing) is, on average, 3 weeks but can range between 3 and 70 days.
How long does it take for symptoms of listeriosis to appear after eating contaminated food?
It usually takes about 3 weeks for symptoms to appear, but it can happen as soon as 3 days or up to 70 days after infection.
If I have eaten a food that was recalled due to being contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, what should I do now?
If you have eaten any recalled foods and are feeling well, you do not need to do anything. However, if within 70 days from the day of eating them, you become unwell, seek medical advice.
If you have eaten any recalled foods and you feel unwell, seek medical advice.
What should I do if I have one of the recalled foods in my fridge or freezer?
You should not eat any of the recalled foods. You should dispose of them, or return them to the store where purchased, as directed by the retailer. Unopened packs should not be opened.
Can I get a refund for a food that has been recalled?
Contact the retailer where the food was purchased for information on refunds.
Where can I get additional information and advice?
You can find further information on listeriosis and its symptoms on the HPSC website.
FSAI guidance on reducing the risk of food poisoning among individuals who are particularly vulnerable.