Treatment & Prevention Options For Listeria

Listeria is a bacteria that can cause a rare infection called listeriosis, which is spread through eating food contaminated by the bacteria. While it can develop in a variety of foods, listeriosis is most commonly connected to dairy products and unpasteurized milk. Soft cheeses are known carriers, as are pre-packaged, ready-to-eat foods like deli meats and sandwiches. Most individuals affected by listeriosis will not experience severe symptoms. However, aches and pains, chills, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, and fever have been reported. Although a listeria infection typically goes away on its own, it can cause more severe problems in individuals with a weak immune system. The following are easy ways to prevent or treat listeria, for those who have become infected.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, and though listeria infections typically resolve themselves, sometimes medication may be necessary to aid the process. This is particularly true for pregnant women, babies, the elderly, and those with a high fever. If your doctor has diagnosed you, they may prescribe medication to kill the bacteria. Generally speaking, ampicillin is the preferred antibiotic. It can be taken alone or in combination with gentamicin. However, patients allergic to penicillin will require alternative treatments called 'second-line agents.' These include trimethoprim, erythromycin, and vancomycin, to name a few.

Observational Approach For Mild Cases

An observational approach for mild cases of listeria is the most common method of treatment. For most patients, the symptoms present similarly to the flu, disappearing after a few days, so keeping an eye on symptoms and acting accordingly is the best method of self-care. Rehydrating after losing fluids through diarrhea, resting, and avoiding dairy are simple ways to make yourself feel better.

If symptoms persist, though, or if you are particularly susceptible to the infection progressing, simply monitoring your symptoms is not an effective option. Mild cases in normally healthy adults are not a huge cause for concern, but a pregnant woman can pass listeriosis to her unborn child, which can be very dangerous for the baby. Those with weak immune systems should also visit a doctor immediately when symptoms present themselves.