A rising threat: Emergence of Listeria monocytogenes infection from hilly terrain of North India

Listeria monocytogenes is a foodborne pathogen capable of causing severe invasive infections, particularly meningitis, in neonates, immunocompromised individuals, and pregnant women. This report represents a neonate with multiple complications including meningitis. This case underscores the diagnostic difficulties and therapeutic challenges posed by L. monocytogenes, especially in high-risk populations. Early recognition, timely antimicrobial therapy, and close long-term follow-up are critical for improving outcomes in affected patients and minimizing the risk of neurological sequelae or fatal progression.