Which groups are at risk for Listeria meningitis?

Listeria meningitis is particularly concerning for specific groups due to factors such as age, immune status, and underlying health conditions. The group at risk includes neonates, the elderly, and immunocompromised patients.

Neonates are vulnerable because their immune systems are not fully developed, making it difficult for them to fight off infections. They can contract Listeria through vertical transmission during delivery or through contaminated food consumed by pregnant mothers.

The elderly are also at increased risk as their immune systems might be weakened due to age, making them less able to fend off infections effectively.

Immunocompromised individuals, such as those with chronic illnesses or undergoing treatments like chemotherapy, are susceptible due to their diminished ability to respond to infections. This makes them a high-risk group for various pathogens, including Listeria.

Other choices do not encompass this broader vulnerability. For instance, stating that only infants or only the elderly are at risk does not reflect the full spectrum of individuals who may develop Listeria meningitis. Similarly, limiting the population at risk to those with recent surgeries ignores other critical factors that contribute to vulnerability in this case.