The U.S. CDC has discovered that there can be long-term health problems that can occur as a result of food-borne pathogens.

Scientists are beginning to look at a pattern that's emerging which shows that some people, especially children, may suffer long-term health risks following a food-borne illness, such as premature death, paralysis, kidney failure, seizures, hearing or visual impairments and mental disabilities.

    *Campylobacter is one of the most common causes of food poisonings and is found in raw and undercooked poultry, unpasteurized milk and contaminated water. Although most people who get campylobacteriosis recover quickly, in rare instances there can be long-term consequences, including Guillain-Barré syndrome, which affects nerves in the body resulting in paralysis that can last for several weeks and sometimes be permanent. 
    * E. Coli bacteria is a risk factor in certain types of foods, including undercooked hamburger; raw vegetables; unpasteurized milk, apple juice or cider; and soft cheeses made from raw milk. Although most varieties of E. coli are harmless, some strains of the bacteria, such as E. coli 0157:H7, can cause hemolytic uremic syndrome, which can develop into a life-threatening form of kidney failure.
    * Listeria monocytogenes is found in soil and water and can contaminate vegetables and meat and poultry foods. Pregnant women, newborns and people with compromised immune systems are especially vulnerable to listeriosis, which can cause miscarriage, mental disabilities and brain damage.
    * Salmonella is found in animal products, such as beef, poultry, milk and eggs. The long-term affects from salmonella include joint pain, eye irritation and painful urination.

Especially during the holidays with all the food around at parties, at meals, snacks, etc, make sure things aren't left out too long or are undercooked.

Melissa.