Overview

• Listeriosis cases in the UK rose 14% in 2024 compared to the five-year average, with 179 infections and 28 deaths reported.
• Pregnant women accounted for over 20% of cases in 2024, with nearly half experiencing miscarriage or stillbirth due to the infection.
• The UK Health Security Agency has identified five high-risk food types, including soft cheeses, smoked fish, and chilled sliced meats, advising vulnerable groups to avoid them.
• Seven outbreaks in 2024 were linked to contaminated ready-to-eat products, and a recent cluster tied to chilled desserts in NHS settings led to three deaths.
• Regions such as London and the West Midlands reported higher infection rates, with ongoing surveillance to monitor regional hotspots.