Listeria Risks
Listeria risks vary according to age and health of individuals, and are usually mild. Most people who become infected with Listeria develop only stomach flu like symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea, possibly accompanied by fever or muscle aches. However, Listeria risks are greater for those who are immune deficient. Unborn babies, young children and the elderly are often at increased risk in any type of foodborne illness. Food poisoning usually lasts only a few days to a few weeks, but in certain circumstances may create serious health problems or even become fatal.
Listeria risks are 20 times higher in pregnant women than non-pregnant women. Most women who develop Listeriosis do so in the third trimester of pregnancy. These puts their unborn baby at a great risk of stillbirth, miscarriage or delivering too early. The baby may also be born with an infection, which can be very serious.
Other common Listeria risks include:
* Septicemia or blood poisoning
* Meningitis, which is an inflammation and infection in the spine
* Encephalitis, or swelling of the brain
Septicemia, meningitis and encephalitis are all life threatening conditions that put young children, the elderly and pregnant women at risk. Those with AIDS, cancer or other conditions that weaken the immune system are more likely to become seriously ill, or even die. As you can see, Listeria risks can be life threatening.
When you suspect food poisoning, you should seek the advice of your doctor at once to determine that yours is only a mild case. Although you may not be aware of the fact, you may be compensated for any expenses that you have incurred due to your illness. If you became sick after eating foods prepared in a public place or that were manufactured and sold at your grocery store, you should contact a food poisoning attorney. Lost wages and medical costs may be expenses that you can recoup.
To drastically lessen Listeria risks, individuals who prepare or manufacture foods should be extremely cautious. Washing hands often is essential, especially after visiting the toilet. Taking care to make certain that raw or tainted foods do not come in contact with other foods or cooking utensils, and thoroughly disinfecting surfaces are other measures that should be put in to place.
Listeria risks can be greatly reduced if the proper steps are taken. If you have contracted a foodborne illness, talk to your doctor at once. You may then decide to contact a reputable New York food poisoning attorney for further advice about whether you should seek monetary compensation.
