Symptoms Of Listeriosis (Listeria)

Sometimes, the food we eat can cause harm. When a product is contaminated by Listeria monocytogenes, which are commonly found in poultry, cattle, soil, water, and can also thrive in food manufacturing plants, it can cause individuals to become ill. It can even cross the blood-brain barrier. Listeria can incubate for anywhere between three and seventy days and can make you feel sick for days or even weeks. Anyone who thinks they might have contracted listeriosis should immediately contact their doctor and get proper treatment. Older adults, pregnant women, and other at-risk populations should pay extra close attention to listeriosis symptoms.

With this in mind, it's time to get familiar with the most common symptoms of listeria now.

Muscle Aches And Pains

Muscle aches and pains are common symptoms of listeriosis and typically last anywhere between one and three days. It can be easy to mistake listeriosis for the flu initially, especially when the muscle aches are coupled with the presence of other symptoms on this list. The intensity of the muscle pains and aches patients might experience can vary and typically taper off after a few days. Affected individuals might notice their back and shoulders bear the brunt of the aches, just like with the flu. Of course, if the muscle pains and aches continue longer than a few days, a doctor should be consulted so they can conduct an assessment and make a formal diagnosis, both of which are required before treatment can begin.

Continue reading to learn about the next pair of symptoms of a listeria infection.