Abstract
Listeria monocytogenes is ubiquitous in nature, being commonly present in faecal flora of otherwise healthy human population or animals. Clinical manifestation of listeria infection may vary widely from mild to invasive, life-threatening disease.
In an immunocompromised host rather serious course should be expected. Due to cell-mediated immunity insufficiency associated with pregnancy even a short bacteriemia in pregnant women can result in transplacental infection.
Most listeria infections are sporadic, but outbreaks eventually occur. Outbreak of listeriosis in autumn of 2006 and winter of 2007 in Czech Republic was associated with increased perinatal listeriosis incidence.
An extended information on listeriosis prevention in pregnancy should be given and each febrile episode during pregnancy should be carefully examinated. Early listeriosis treatment reduces the risk of vertical transmission.