Newborn Dies from Listeria After Mom Consumed Unpasteurized Milk During Pregnancy, Officials Confirm
Understanding Listeria Infections and the Risks of Raw Dairy
A listeria infection is a serious illness caused by the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes, which can be found in various foods. According to the Mayo Clinic, this bacteria can spread through contaminated food items, making it a significant public health concern.
A Tragic Case Highlights the Dangers
A recent incident in New Mexico has brought attention to the risks associated with listeria infections. A newborn has died from the infection, leading the New Mexico Department of Health to issue a warning about the dangers of consuming raw dairy products. While the specific details about the newborn or their mother have not been disclosed, health officials believe that the most likely source of the infection was unpasteurized milk consumed by the infant’s mother during pregnancy.
This tragic event underscores the importance of understanding how listeria spreads and the populations most at risk.
Symptoms and Vulnerable Populations
In newborns, the symptoms of a listeria infection can be subtle but severe. They may include reduced interest in feeding, low energy levels, irritability, vomiting, and difficulty breathing. These signs can be easy to miss, which is why early detection and treatment are critical.
The bacteria can be found in soil, water, and animal waste, making it possible for many common food items to become contaminated. Foods such as raw milk, raw vegetables, certain processed foods, and cold-smoked fish are known to carry the risk of listeria.
The Serious Risks of Raw Dairy
The New Mexico Department of Health emphasized that while investigators could not pinpoint the exact cause of the infection, the case highlights the serious risks that raw dairy poses to vulnerable groups. This includes pregnant women, young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.
Dr. Chad Smelser, deputy state epidemiologist for the New Mexico Department of Health, stated that pregnant individuals should only consume pasteurized milk products to help prevent illnesses and deaths in newborns. He noted that listeria can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm birth, or fatal infections in newborns, even if the mother experiences only mild symptoms.
Additional Pathogens in Raw Milk
Consuming raw milk can also expose individuals to other harmful pathogens, including avian influenza, Brucella, Tuberculosis, Salmonella, Campylobacter, Cryptosporidium, and E. coli. Some of these diseases are particularly dangerous for children under 5 years old and adults over 65.
Jeff M. Witte, New Mexico Secretary of Agriculture, highlighted the importance of pasteurization in ensuring the safety of dairy products. He stated that New Mexico’s dairy producers work hard to provide safe, wholesome products, and pasteurization is a vital part of that process.
Recommendations for Consumers
Health officials encourage consumers, especially those at higher risk, to choose pasteurized dairy products to reduce the likelihood of serious foodborne illness. By making informed choices about the foods they consume, individuals can protect themselves and their families from preventable infections.
It is essential for everyone to stay informed about food safety practices, particularly when it comes to high-risk foods like raw dairy. Taking these precautions can make a significant difference in preventing serious health complications.
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