Derby County Council has issued important advice for pregnant women, midwives and public health nurses, after leading supermarket chain Sainsbury’s recalled several of its Deli Filler ready-to-eat food products due to the presence of the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes.
The council says that this is the primary cause of the rare but serious foodborne infection Listeriosis.
Although infection is rare, there are some groups of individuals who are at an increased risk of more serious complications – including anyone over the age of 60; women who are pregnant (both mother and unborn baby may be at risk); newborn babies less than one month old; those with a weakened immune system due to an existing medical condition (cancer, lymphoma and sickle-cell anaemia); or anyone taking immunosuppressive treatment, such as chemotherapy or treatment for HIV/AIDS.
The council warns that it is important to take special precautions in pregnancy, as even a mild form of the illness in a pregnant woman can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth or severe illness in a newborn baby.
Listeriosis – also referred to as Listeria – is most commonly found in unpasteurised milk, as well as dairy products, in which it is an ingredient.
Food can become contaminated during and after preparation and therefore, as a general rule, pregnant women are advised not to eat any food that they cannot first wash or cook thoroughly.
The council also advises expectant mothers to make sure they know the important facts about a healthy diet during pregnancy, including foods to should avoid, such as certain types of soft cheese.
Pregnant women should also take precautions to limit the risk of food poisoning during pregnancy and reduce any unnecessary risks.
In the majority of cases, Listeriosis is mild and causes symptoms including a high temperature/fever, vomiting and diarrhoea. These symptoms usually pass within three days without the need for treatment.
However, Derby County Council advises members of the public who fit into one or more of the categories at risk to seek medical attention immediately if they suspect they might have contracted Listeria.
As a first measure, contact a GP or the relevant out-of-hours’ service – or call NHS Direct for more advice or information about Listeriosis.
Duncan Lewis Personal Injury Solicitors
Duncan Lewis Personal Injury Solicitors can advise those who have fallen ill with food poisoning caused by negligence – including on package holidays – on how to make a no win no fee claim for compensation.
Food poisoning claims have to be made within three years of illness or diagnosis of illness – children can claim compensation for food poisoning up to the age of 21, including claims involving: