The most common symptoms for listeriosis include:
- Fever
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Muscle aches
In some people, the symptoms could be so mild that the infection stays undetected.
Signs and symptoms can start within one to three days after consuming contaminated food. The mildest symptom is a flu-like illness with diarrhea and fever. Some individuals don’t experience the first symptoms until days or weeks after their exposure.
Symptoms and signs will last unless the illness is gone. For some people who are diagnosed with listeria, treatment with antibiotics is frequently recommended. There may be a high risk for issues, especially within the nervous system, cheart, and blood flow. This infection is primarily risky in pregnant women, people aged 65 and older, and people with a weakened immune system.
In some cases, listeriosis can spread outside the intestines. This infection is referred as invasive listeriosis, can show more severe symptoms. These include:
- Confusion
- Headache
- Stiff neck
- Convulsions or seizures
- Changes in alertness
- Difficulty walking or loss of balance
- Complications including bacterial meningitis and sepsis
You will need a stay in the hospital to treat a more serious infection as it may be life-threatening.