MAPUTO, The current outbreak of listeriosis in neighbouring South Africa presents no threat to Mozambique, says Mozambican Health Minister Nazira Abdula.
Speaking to the media during a tour of health units here Monday, Abdula said the Mozambican government was in contact with the South African health authorities, and was also being kept updated by the World Health Organization (WHO).
All necessary preventive measures have been taken, she said. The type of prevention required is within what we are already doing,” she added.
Basic preventive measures include respect for the norms of individual and collective hygiene, and ensuring that homes are kept clean. She urged all citizens suffering from fever, diarrhoea or vomiting (which could be symptoms of listeriosis) to seek immediate medical attention.
Listeriosis is a disease caused by the bacterium listeria monocytogenes, which enters the human body through the consumption of contaminated food. It is a severe form of food poisoning and its symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and sometimes nausea or diarrhoea.
In pregnant women, the infection can result in miscarriage, premature delivery, and serious infection of the infant or even stillbirth.
The South African outbreak of listeriosis is the worst on record in that country, with more than 750 confirmed cases, and at least 60 deaths. The source of the outbreak, which began in December, is so far unknown.
Source: NAM NEWS NETWORK