Listeriosis is a serious infection caused by eating food contaminated with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. Listeria has been found in a variety of raw foods, such as uncooked meats and unpasteurized (raw) milk products. Listeria is killed by heating, but contrary to many other bacteria it thrives in the cool temperatures such as those provided by refrigeration. Therefore Listeria may be found on ready-to-eat foods such as cheese, hot dogs, deli meats, or produce.
Symptoms of Listeria Infection
Listeria has an incubation period of 21-70 days, so a person with an infection may not realize it for sometime after eating a contaminated food. When symptoms develop they typically manifest themselves in the form of fever, muscle aches, and sometimes diarrhea or nausea.
A Listeria infection may spread to the nervous system which may cause headache, stiff neck, loss of balance, or convulsions. In some cases Listeria may infect the central nervous system causing meningitis and/or brain infection.
If a pregnant woman becomes infected, miscarriage, sillbirth, or infection of the newborn can occur.
What to do if you think you have Listeria
If you think you or someone you know has contracted a Listeria infection consult a doctor immediately.
If you or a family member became ill with a Listeria infection after consuming contaminated food and you’re interested in pursuing a legal claim, you can contact the Marler Clark attorneys for a free case evaluation. The Marler Clark Listeria lawyers have unmatched Listeria litigation experience and are readily available to talk with you about your legal options regarding any damages or losses incurred as a result of your Listeria infection.
Marler Clark has represented countless Listeria victims and is the only firm in the nation with a practice focused exclusively on plaintiff foodborne illness litigation.
You can fill out the contact form or call toll-free at 800-884-9840. There is no cost to you.