The medical consequences of Listeria monocytogenes & Listeriosis - by Narjès Armanet Senior Global Medical Advisor

Narjes is a Medical Doctor specializing in genetics from Paris Sud University, with a PhD focused on rare diseases. 

In this interview, Narjès talks about the medical important consequences of Listeria monocytogenes. First she explains that Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium found in moist environments like soil and water. It can contaminate food and survive refrigeration, making it a persistent threat.

She adds that consuming contaminated food may lead to listeriosis, a potentially serious disease. Though rare, listeriosis has high mortality and must be taken seriously. « In the EU, there are about 2,268 confirmed cases annually, or 0.5 per 100,000 people. » « In the U.S., roughly 1,600 people get listeriosis each year, with around 260 deaths. » 

Regarding symptoms and danger, Narjès clarifies that healthy individuals might only experience mild symptoms like nausea or diarrhea. However, she warns that the elderly, pregnant women, and immunocompromised people are at greater risk. « In these groups, the infection can become invasive and life-threatening. Invasive listeriosis can result in miscarriage, bloodstream infections, or meningitis. »   With a mortality rate of up to 20 to 30% for this vulnerable populations.

Treatment typically involves antibiotics like ampicillin or amoxicillin.
For severe cases, she notes, gentamicin may be included, though side effects can be significant.

In conclusion, Narjès concludes by stating that prevention and early detection are essential to control the disease and avoid a catastrophe.