listeriosis

an infectious disease caused when the Gram-positive (see GRAM'S STAIN ) bacterium Listeria monocytogenes, which attacks animals, is contracted by human beings through eating infected products. It produces symptoms similar to influenza or it may cause MENINGITIS or ENCEPHALITIS . The old and frail are more susceptible, as are the newborn. It may cause ABORTION or damage the FOETUS if contracted during a PREGNANCY . ANTIBIOTICS such as PENICILLIN provide an effective treatment.