The source of human infection is mainly contaminated food. Symptoms of listeriosis may include general gastrointestinal symptoms (vomiting, diarrhoea, fever), sepsis, and central nervous system symptoms with lifelong consequences. It is particularly dangerous for elderly people, children and pregnant women (with mortality rates of up to 30%). The source of infection is often difficult to identify because of the long incubation period.

The research team that discovered the new strain is calling for international cooperation on the issue.

Related news, publications:

• Highly virulent Listeriosis pathogen discovered_01
• Highly virulent Listeriosis pathogen discovered_02
• Yin et al., 2019.

A rapid multiplex PCR method for the detection of L. monocytogenes serovar 4h, was developed based on a 2020 study.