Listeriosis in mainland China: A systematic review

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review to better understand the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of listeriosis patients in mainland China. Methods: The six most widely used Chinese and English language databases were searched. The records of patients with listeriosis in mainland China reported during the years 2011–2017 were extracted. The clinical data of patients and information on clinical isolates of Listeria were collected and analyzed. Results: In total, 136 records were identified, reporting 562 patients with listeriosis. The number of patients was much higher than that reported in the previous decade. The 227 non-perinatal listeriosis patients included had a mortality rate of 23.78%. Of the 231 perinatal listeriosis patients, 32.68% resulted in abortion and/or newborn death. All listeriosis cases were reported as being sporadic. The listeriosis was traced to infection via a meat product in only three patients, while 33.12% were healthcare-associated infections. Conclusions: The number of patients with listeriosis in mainland China may have been underestimated previously. Perinatal cases in mainland China account for a much higher proportion than is usually described. Considering the high number of listeriosis patients in China, a comprehensive monitoring system for Listeria is urgently needed. Keywords: Listeriosis, Foodborne disease, China, Review