Listeriosis is a foodborne illness caused by the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. This infection can be harmful to anyone who gets it, but it is especially dangerous for pregnant women and their babies.

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is essential to understand how listeriosis spreads and how to prevent it.

1. How Does Listeriosis Spread?

Listeria bacteria are commonly found in soil, water, and some animals. The bacteria can contaminate food products through various means, including:.

Contaminated equipment in processing facilities
Infected animals that produce food products such as milk and cheese
Contaminated soil that grows produce
Contaminated water that irrigates crops

Once the bacteria are present in food products, they can grow and multiply at refrigeration temperatures.

This means that even foods that are stored correctly can become contaminated if they were not properly processed or became contaminated before they were packaged.

2. How Does Listeriosis Affect Pregnant Women and their Babies?

Listeria bacteria can cross the placental barrier and infect the fetus, causing miscarriage, stillbirth, or serious health problems for the baby after birth.

Pregnant women are more likely to get listeriosis than other people because their immune system is weakened during pregnancy.

Symptoms of listeriosis can take several days or even weeks to show up, making it difficult to diagnose. Symptoms can include:.

Fever
Muscle aches
Headache
Nausea
Diarrhea

If you experience any of these symptoms after eating contaminated food, seek medical attention immediately.

3. How Can Pregnant Women Prevent Listeriosis?

The best way to prevent listeriosis during pregnancy is to take steps to avoid getting infected in the first place. Here are some tips to keep in mind:.

Avoid eating raw or undercooked meat, poultry, or seafood. Cook all meats to an internal temperature of at least 165°F.
Avoid unpasteurized milk or dairy products. Make sure all milk, cheese, and other dairy products you consume are pasteurized.
Avoid foods made with raw or undercooked eggs. Cook eggs until the yolk and white are firm.
Avoid deli meats and hot dogs unless they have been reheated to an internal temperature of at least 165°F. Avoid soft cheeses such as feta, brie, and blue cheese unless they are made from pasteurized milk.
Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating them. Use a vegetable brush to remove dirt and other debris.

It’s also essential to practice good food safety habits, such as washing your hands before and after handling food, keeping your kitchen clean, and storing food at the proper temperature.

4. Conclusion

Listeriosis is a serious illness that can have severe consequences for pregnant women and their babies. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of infection.

By following the tips above and practicing good food safety habits, you can protect yourself and your growing baby from this dangerous infection.