Which group is at increased risk for listeriosis?

Pregnant women and newborns are indeed at increased risk for listeriosis due to their unique physiological vulnerabilities.

Pregnant women are more susceptible to listeriosis because the immune system undergoes changes during pregnancy. These changes make it harder for the body to fight off infections, including those caused by Listeria monocytogenes, which is the bacterium responsible for listeriosis. Additionally, if a pregnant woman contracts listeriosis, it can have severe consequences for the developing fetus, including miscarriage, stillbirth, or severe illness in a newborn.

Newborns are also at significant risk for listeriosis because their immune systems are not fully developed at birth, making them more vulnerable to infections. If they are exposed to Listeria, particularly during delivery or through contaminated food consumed by the mother during pregnancy, they can suffer serious health complications, including sepsis or meningitis, which can be life-threatening.

By understanding the risks associated with both of these groups, it becomes clear why they are highlighted together as being at increased risk for listeriosis.