How to avoid getting listeriosis
Pasteurising dairy products is important as the process kills Listeria. Cook-chill and ready-to-eat foods should not be stored for too long and should be thoroughly reheated before serving. Raw vegetables, fruits and salads should be thoroughly washed before eating. Pregnant women and people whose immune systems are compromised are advised to avoid soft cheeses, pâté and pre-packed salads, contact with pregnant or newborn animals and silage. Hand washing is effective at reducing the risk of gastroenteritis from many organisms and may be made even more effective by using antibacterial soap. There is no vaccine against listeriosis.