What does listeria mean?
Listeria is a genus of Gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria that can cause listeriosis, a serious infection that can be life-threatening in people with weakened immune systems. The bacteria is commonly found in soil, water, and the gastrointestinal tracts of animals. Listeria is typically transmitted through contaminated food, such as cheese, hot dogs, and unpasteurized milk. The disease can cause symptoms such as fever, headache, and stiffness, and can be treated with antibiotics. Listeria is a significant public health concern, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems. Understanding the causes and risks of listeriosis is essential for preventing and controlling outbreaks of the disease.
A genus of Gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria.
"The bacteria was identified as Listeria monocytogenes, a common cause of listeriosis."
Listeria is typically used in formal or scientific contexts to refer to the bacteria or the disease it causes.
A type of foodborne pathogen that can cause listeriosis.
"The outbreak of listeriosis was linked to contaminated cheese, which was recalled from stores nationwide."
Listeria is typically used in formal or scientific contexts to refer to the bacteria or the disease it causes.
The plural form listerias is used to refer to multiple instances of the bacteria or the disease it causes.
"The outbreak of listeriosis was linked to contaminated cheese, which was recalled from stores nationwide."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of listeria
The genus Listeria was first described in 1940 by Picard, who named it after Joseph Lister, a British surgeon who pioneered antiseptic techniques in surgery. The name Listeria is derived from the Latin word 'listera', meaning 'to wash'. The genus is closely related to Bacillus and Clostridium, and is characterized by its Gram-positive, rod-shaped morphology.
How listeria is actually used
Listeria is typically used in formal or scientific contexts to refer to the bacteria or the disease it causes. In informal contexts, it may be used to refer to the disease itself, rather than the bacteria.