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(Richmond-AP) -- State health officials are investigating several cases of food-borne illness caused by listerosis.

All five cases have occurred in the Richmond area in the past six weeks. Health department officials say it's unusual to have a cluster of five cases in the short period of time.

Listerosis is caused by the listeria bacteria. Unwashed produce, raw meat, soft cheese and cold cuts can carry the germs.

It can cause mild symptoms that include nausea or diarrhea, but if it enters the bloodstream or nervous system, it can cause a severe illness such as meningitis.

People with compromised immune systems are particularly vulnerable to the disease.

(Copyright 2004 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Date published: 7/16/2004

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