07/12/2017
HEALTH WARNING
My husband's employer just sent this message out and I thought I would share this with you. Note that processed and smoked meats that are cooked through are safe to eat as the thorough cooking kills the bacteria.
On 5 December 2017, the National Department of Health announced that there is an outbreak of Listeriosis in South Africa. According to the Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, there were 557 laboratory confirmed cases of Listeriosis confirmed and 36 people have died due to Listeriosis during this year.
What is Listeriosis?
Listeriosis is a disease caused by a bacteria named Listeria. Listeria is found in water, soil and vegetation and it contaminates food sources such as fresh produce (e.g. fruits and vegetables) and animal products.
It can be present in raw milk and foods made from raw milk. It can also contaminate a variety of processed meats.
What are the signs and symptoms?
Most people will present with flu-like symptoms including diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, generalised body pains and weakness. If infection spreads to the nervous system, symptoms such as headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance or convulsions may be experienced.
Complications of Listeriosis are meningitis (infection of the linings of the brain) and septicaemia (infection of the blood stream). Both these conditions are fatal if not detected early and treated.
How to prevent Listeriosis?
1. Avoid eating the following foods which are common sources of listeria:
· Ready-to-eat deli meats and hot dogs
· Refrigerated pâtés or meat spreads
· Unpasteurized (raw) milk and dairy products
· Soft cheese made with unpasteurized milk
· Raw or smoked seafood
· Raw sprouts
2. Generally, ensure your food is thoroughly cooked (to kill any bacteria) and consider peeling your fruit and wash your hands frequently with soap and water especially when handling food.
Listeriosis is treatable with antibiotics. You are therefore urged to seek medical help immediately if you experience the above-mentioned symptoms.
