Listeria facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Listeria |
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| Scanning electron micrograph of Listeria monocytogenes. | |
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Listeriaceae
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Listeria
Pirie 1940
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L. aquatica |
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Listeria is a group of tiny living things called bacteria. There are about ten different kinds, or "species," of Listeria. This group of bacteria is named after a famous scientist, Joseph Lister. You can find Listeria almost everywhere around us!
While most types of Listeria are harmless, two of them can cause people and animals to get sick. These two types are called pathogens. They can cause an illness known as listeriosis, especially if they grow in food that isn't stored or prepared safely.
Contents
What is Listeria?
Listeria is a type of bacteria, which are very small, single-celled organisms. They are so tiny you need a special microscope to see them! These bacteria are found all over the world. They can live in soil, water, plants, and even in the bodies of animals.
There are several different kinds of Listeria bacteria. Most of them do not cause any harm. However, two specific types are known to make people and animals ill. These are Listeria monocytogenes and Listeria ivanovii.
How Listeria Can Make You Sick
When certain types of Listeria bacteria get into food, they can multiply. If someone eats food with too many of these bacteria, they can get an illness called listeriosis. This illness can be mild for some people, but it can be very serious for others.
People who are more likely to get very sick from listeriosis include:
- Pregnant women and their newborns
- Older adults
- People with weakened immune systems
Symptoms of listeriosis can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and sometimes seizures. It's important to get medical help if you think you might have listeriosis.
Past Outbreaks of Listeriosis
Listeria outbreaks have happened around the world. These outbreaks often happen when contaminated food is eaten by many people.
- In 2011, a serious outbreak happened in the United States. It was linked to cantaloupes from a farm in Colorado. Sadly, 21 people died during this outbreak.
- Another outbreak in 1998 was connected to hot dogs and possibly deli meats. This incident also led to the deaths of 21 people.
- In 1985, an outbreak was traced back to Mexican-style soft cheese. This event was linked to 52 deaths.
These examples show why it's so important to handle food safely and to cook it properly.
Images for kids
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Listeria grown on agar medium
See also
In Spanish: Listeria para niños
