Norway: Listeriosis outbreak reported as of late December

Event

Health officials in Norway have confirmed an ongoing listeriosis outbreak as of late-December. At least six cases have been confirmed between December 1 and December 21. According to local sources, the most affected areas include Hedmark and Oppland. Authorities have advised people to handle food safely and toughly cook all meat and fish.

Context

Listeriosis is caused by the Listeria monocytogenes bacterium, typically contracted via the consumption of contaminated food or water, and can lead to meningitis or encephalitis. Symptoms of listeriosis include nausea and vomiting, diarrhea (with or without blood), fever, abdominal pain, headache, and body aches. If caught early enough, listeria infections can be treated with antibiotics. Newborns, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems are at the greatest risk of infection.

Advice

Individuals present in Norway are advised to seek medical attention if presenting the above symptoms. To minimize the risk of contracting the illness, individuals are advised to thoroughly cook all meat and fish, thoroughly clean all fruits and vegetables before consumption, and immediately wash hands and utensils (e.g. knives, cutting boards, etc.) that have come into contact with raw or frozen foods.