Gert Sibande District Municipality (GSDM), through its Municipal Health Services Unit (MHS), cautioned the public about the listeriosis outbreak as announced by the Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, on 5 December.
It is important that everybody is well informed about what listeriosis is and what measures to take for prevention.
GSDM assured the communities that listeriosis can be prevented and is also treatable.
Although any one can get it, the elderly, expecting moms and families with newborns are urged to take extra care as they are among the high risk groups.
Cases of fatalities have been confirmed in certain areas.
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Listeriosis is a serious bacterial disease caused by the Gram-positive, rod shaped bacterium and Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes).
The bacterium is widely distributed in nature and can be found in soil, water, contaminated food and decaying vegetation.
Animals can also be contaminated by these sources.
It is a hardy bacterium and can withstand various conditions like freezing, drying, heat, acid, saline conditions and alcohol.
Many foods have been associated with L. monocytogenes.
Examples include raw or unpasteurized milk, cheese, raw vegetables, fruit, raw poultry, red meat, raw or smoked fish and other seafood.
The severe, invasive form of the illness can have a very long incubation period, estimated to vary from three days to three months.
Listeriosis can easily be prevented by following the keys to safer food:
• Keep clean by washing your hands before handling food and often during food preparation,
wash your hands after going to the toilet, wash and sanitize all surfaces and
equipment used for food preparation, protect kitchen areas and food from
insects, pests and other animals.
• Separate raw and cooked food by using separate equipment and utensils such as knives and cutting boards for handling raw foods. Store food in containers to avoid contact between raw and prepared foods.
Raw food, especially meat, poultry and seafood, and their juices, can contain dangerous
microorganisms which may be transferred onto other foods during food preparation and storage.
• Cook food thoroughly, especially meat, poultry, eggs and seafood.
• Keep food at safe temperatures by promptly putting it in the fridge after being cooked, however, do not store food too long.
Microorganisms can multiply very quickly if food is stored at room temperature.
• Use safe water to wash fruit and vegetables, especially if eaten raw.
• Select fresh and wholesome foods and do not use food beyond its used by date.
Raw materials, including water and ice, may be contaminated with dangerous microorganisms and chemicals.
Toxic chemicals may be formed in damaged and mouldy foods. Care in selection of raw materials and simple measures such as washing and peeling may reduce the risk.
The symptoms of listeriosis include fever, muscle aches, and sometimes nausea or diarrhea.
If infection spreads to the nervous system, symptoms such as headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or convulsions can occur.
But infected pregnant women may experience only a mild, flu-like illness.
The community is urged to visit their nearest health institution if they show any signs of infection.
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