A healthy body is able to cope with small numbers of Listeria monocytogenes; large numbers however can be overwhelming. For pregnant women, the elderly and children, it can be fatal.
Listeria is a facultative anaerobic bacterium which means it is capable of surviving in the presence or absence of oxygen. These bacteria can reach dangerous levels in food that is beginning to rot.
Cause of Illness: Poor fridge storage, poor temperature control, undercooking food, reusing out-of-date foods and poorly maintained/cleaned kitchens.
Common Symptoms:
- Raised temperature
- Muscle pain (stiff neck)
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Weakness
Less Common Symptoms:
- Brain Damage
- Nerve Damage
- Death
Source: Ready-to-eat meats, hot dogs, pâtés and meat spreads are common hosts to this bacterium. Cheeses made from unpasteurized milk such as feta, brie and camembert can also contain high amounts of Listeria.
Onset of illness: 3 – 28 days (sometimes longer).
Duration of illness: From days to weeks.
It is your tour operator’s responsibility to make sure you are provided with a safe, clean and hygienic holiday experience.
If you have fallen ill whilst on an all-inclusive holiday get in touch with a member of our team. We have over 10 years industry experience and we will be happy to help you through the process of claiming back the cost of your holiday plus any additional compensation you may be owed.
