Listeriosis in pregnancy

Listeriosis – what is it?

Listeriosis is a bacterial zoonosis caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. Infection occurs via the oral route through ingestion of products containing listeriosis bacteria. The source of the bacteria can be raw meat and unpasteurized cheese, as well as fish and seafood. Listeria is also transmitted through raw and unwashed fruits and vegetables. Therefore, it is important to wash them thoroughly before eating them and not to eat raw meat, fish or unpasteurized dairy products during pregnancy. Infections can also occur when eating ice cream at popular food stalls, especially in seaside resorts, which often do not meet the standards required by the sanitary inspectorate.

Listeriosis in pregnancy – symptoms

In most cases, listeriosis causes no symptoms in healthy people with a well-functioning immune system. However, pregnant women are more susceptible to full-blown listeriosis due to their weakened immune systems. Flu-like symptoms may occur, including fever and bone and joint pain. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea are also common. If you suspect the disease, do not hesitate to see your doctor as soon as possible, who will diagnose listeriosis and initiate the appropriate treatment.

Listeriosis in pregnancy – treatment

Due to its bacterial cause, listeriosis requires treatment with antibiotics. Ampicillin or erythromycin are most commonly used for this purpose in pregnancy.

Listeriosis in pregnancy – the risk

Listeriosis is usually not associated with complications for the pregnant woman, but it can be particularly dangerous for the baby. If infection occurs, premature birth may result. In this case, the newborn may have symptoms of pneumonia or septicemia, which is a generalized infection. The baby may also have skin lesions. The nervous system may also be affected. During pregnancy, one of the possible complications of listeriosis is intrauterine growth retardation and, in the worst case, miscarriage.

Listeriosis in pregnancy – prevention

To avoid listeriosis infection during pregnancy, the expectant mother should avoid contact with raw meat and unprocessed dairy products. Experts point out that a cutting board should not be used for raw meat as well as vegetables or fruits. Bacteria die at high temperatures, so careful and appropriate heat treatment of products is very important. Vegetables and fruits, on the other hand, should be washed thoroughly before consumption. In this way, the risk of contracting listeriosis during pregnancy is minimized.