Food Poisoning Bulletin – Full Article at this link.
Listeria is the common name for the pathogenic or disease-causing bacterium known as Listeria monocytogenes. It is a foodborne bacterium that, when ingested, causes an infection known as listeriosis.[1] Approximately 2,500 illnesses and 500 deaths are attributed to listeriosis in the United States annually.[2]
Listeria is ubiquitous in the environment, and can be isolated from wild and domestic animals, birds, insects, soil, wastewater, and vegetation. The bacterium easily comes into contact with farm animals, as it has been found to be present in grazing areas, stale water, and poorly prepared animal feed. In addition to being present in the environment, Listeria can live in the intestines of humans, animals, and birds for long periods of time without causing infection.
FoodWorld 