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Listeriosis outbreak in Europe: Rising Hospitalizations and Deaths in 2024
Overview of the 2024 Listeriosis Increase
Europe is facing a growing concern related to listeriosis, an infection caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes, which is proving to be the most serious of food-borne diseases.According to the latest edition of the Zoonoses Report,published by the European food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Center for disease Prevention and Control (ECDC),2024 recorded the highest percentage of hospitalizations and deaths associated with this pathology.
During 2024,3,041 cases of listeriosis have been confirmed across Europe. Even tho the number is lower than other infections, the clinical impact is particularly severe: over 56% of patients (approximately 1,700 people) required hospitalization, and 301 patients (10% of the total) died. Thes data, even though partial due to the lack of complete details for 42% of infections, indicate a very high severity. Considering only cases with a known clinical history, the percentage of hospitalizations rises to 97%, while that of deaths reaches 15%, highlighting the particular danger of Listeria for vulnerable subjects.
Italy is also among the countries most affected by this phenomenon,with 238 cases of listeriosis and eight outbreaks confirmed in 2024,in line with the European trend. The increase in infections is evident, going from 1,887 cases in 2020 to over 3,000 in 2024, a signal that requires constant attention and effective preventive measures.
Risk Factors and Critical Issues in the Food Sector
EFSA and ECDC attribute the increase in listeriosis cases to a combination of factors.The aging of the European population makes severe forms more frequent among the elderly and people with compromised immune systems.changes are observed in eating habits, with an ever-increasing consumption of ready-to-eat foods.These products, if not stored or handled correctly, both domestically and industrially, are more exposed to the risk of contamination from Listeria.
Vulnerable Populations
Certain groups are at a significantly higher risk of developing severe listeriosis. These include:
- Pregnant women: Listeriosis can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection of the newborn.
- Newborns: Infants are particularly susceptible to severe illness.
- Elderly individuals: As the population ages, the number of individuals with weakened immune systems increases.
- People with weakened immune systems: Individuals undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, and those with HIV/AIDS are at increased risk.
Common sources of Listeria Contamination
| Food Category | Examples | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
Ready-to-Eat
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