Listeria has been in the news lately. It's been linked to 25 deaths and 123 illnesses, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Tainted cantaloupes have been to blame. This multi-state listeriosis outbreak has been traced to whole cantaloupes from Jensen Farms, which is located in Colorado.

What is Listeria?

Listeria is a bacteria that is found in the water and soil -- and even some animals such as cattle and poultry. It can also develop in raw milk, including foods made with raw milk. In food processing plants, it's capable of contaminating processed meats. The danger with listeria is that it can grow even in cold temperatures, like the temperatures in a refrigerator. However, listeria can be cooked by proper pasteurization and cooking.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, sources of listeria may include hot dogs, certain deli meats, unpasteurized milk and dairy products, soft cheeses, like feta and brie, raw sprouts, and smoked refrigerated seafood.

What are the symptoms of listeria?

While listeria has an incubation period of three to 70 days, symptoms can include a stiff neck, fever, weakness, confusion, and vomiting, which sometimes occurs before diarrhea sets in. If you have any of these symptoms, see your doctor right away.

Who is most at risk for developing complications of listeria?

Pregnant women are at high risk for complications of listeria and should avoid consuming foods that are prone to the listeria bacteria. Older adults, individuals with weakened immune systems, and people with certain diseases, including cancer, HIV, autoimmune diseases, end-stage renal disease, alcoholism, diabetes, and liver disease should also avoid foods that can house the listeria bacteria.