Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Scientists comment on a death caused by Listeriosis in Ireland.
Prof Brendan Wren, Professor of Microbial Pathogenesis, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, said:
What is listeriosis, how common is it, how does it occur, how is it treated?
“Listeriosis invariably is caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes and is a rare infection that can cause meningitis and other complications. It is usually transmitted through the contamination of food products and is unusual in that it can survive at low temperatures including in refrigeration. Pregnant women and over 65s are particularly susceptible to infection.
What do we know so far about the situation so far and what is yet to be learned?
“The current situation appears to be an outbreak in the island of Ireland linked to potential contamination of a food source.”
What might have caused this particular outbreak and how will it be controlled?
“Most outbreaks of Listeriosis are often linked to persistent strains at food manufacturing sites. The strains are often difficult to detect and can withstand refrigeration and persist in factory sites for several months. Full inspection of the food processing chain and culturing of the bacterium will be required to identify the contaminating source.
How deadly is listeria and should we expect to see more deaths due to listeriosis?
“Rarely causes death, mainly in the immunocompromised. Most individuals will have mild flu-like symptoms, nausea and diarrhoea.
How worried should we be about this and future outbreaks?
“Outbreaks of Listeriosis are rare in Europe. The pathogen is very rarely transmitted between humans (except mothers to foetuses). So there should not be real alarm.
What can we do to prevent infection/future outbreaks?
“Close monitoring and testing at all points of the food supply chain”
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