Listeria infection: what to know, and how to prevent it

Listeria infection, also known as listeriosis, is caused by the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. While eating contaminated food isn’t life-threatening for most healthy people, it can lead to severe illness in vulnerable groups. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), listeria is the third leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the US, killing about 260 people each year. So, how can you prevent infection? Click on to find out.