Suffering from Listeria Poisoning

 Posted on October 30,2015 in Food Poisoning

Listeria is a type of bacteria that can cause an individual to suffer from adverse health effects after consuming contaminated food. These health effects are collectively known as listeriosis.

Listeria can be found in a variety of foods such as soft cheeses and processed meats. An individual who contracts listeria poisoning can feel the effects of the illness within a few days. Sometimes the symptoms do not appear until one or two months after the victim contracts the bacteria. This is what can make listeria dangerous – by staying hidden for so long, a victim can go without seeking treatment and suffer significant bodily damage caused by the infection. If you or somebody you know have suffered from listeriosis because of exposure to the bacteria caused by another party's negligence, you or the victim could be entitled to monetary compensation for the costs associated with this illness through a food poisoning claim. Contact an experienced food poisoning attorney to learn more about this type of claim.

Symptoms of Listeria Poisoning

The symptoms of listeriosis include:

• Vomiting
• Fever
• Confusion
• Fatigue
• Stiff neck and muscle aches
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Nausea

The symptoms of listeria poisoning depend on the stage of the infection. Symptoms of early-stage listeriosis tend to be centered around the digestive system, such as vomiting and diarrhea. As the infection spreads to the nervous system, the individual can face symptoms that include muscle aches and confusion.

Who is Susceptible to Listeriosis?

Pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems are especially susceptible to listeria poisoning. Infants who are exposed to listeria in utero can suffer the effects of the illness after birth.

If you have been exposed to listeria or you are feeling the symptoms of listeriosis, seek medical attention and discuss your concern with your doctor.

Preventing Listeria Poisoning

The best way to prevent listeria poisoning is to keep food out of the “danger zone.” The danger zone is the range of temperatures between 40 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. This range is the optimal area for listeria and other dangerous bacteria to grow in food. Always be sure to cook your food to a temperature higher than 140 degrees and when it is time to put the food away, store it promptly in a cold refrigerator.

Food Poisoning Attorneys in Waukegan

At Newland & Newland, LLP, our team of food poisoning attorneys has more than 20 years of experience handling food poisoning claims for our clients. We will answer any questions you have about listeria and other types of food poisoning during your initial legal consultation with our firm. If we determine you have grounds for a personal injury claim related to your food poisoning illness, we can help you put your claim together and file it with the appropriate party. Our team is here for you with legal advice and guidance through every step of the food poisoning claim process.