Listeriosis in South Africa has killed 172 people since the start of last year, officials said today, as the country struggles to contain the world's largest reported outbreak of the disease.
Listeriosis is caused by a natural bacteria found in soil, water, vegetation and animal faeces, and can contaminate food especially meat, dairy, seafood and fresh produce.
It is prevented by basic hygiene and washing food, but South African authorities admit the source of the worsening outbreak is still not unknown.
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The new toll was a sharp jump on the 61 deaths confirmed by early last month.
The United Nations has said South Africa's listeriosis outbreak is believed to be the largest-ever worldwide.
The disease mainly affects children and has a three-week incubation period, making it difficult to track.
Most of the current cases have been in Gauteng province, which includes the cities of Johannesburg and Pretoria.
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