Animal listeriosis in Germany: An update for the current situation over 2 years (2024-2025) and the need for a surveillance system in the animal health sector.

Abstract

Animal listeriosis is a sporadic bacterial infection caused by Listeria (L.) monocytogenes and L. ivanovii. In Germany, only listeriosis caused by L. monocytogenes is considered a notifiable disease. The objective of this report is to analyze official surveillance data on animal listeriosis in Germany from 2024 to 2025 to assess the epidemiological situation and the spatiotemporal distribution of this One Health relevant disease. A total of 341 notifications involving 652 affected animals were reported. The highest number of cases occurred in food-producing animals, particularly cattle, followed by sheep and goats. Listeriosis has also been reported in pet animals, wildlife, and poultry. The epidemiological situation and geographical distribution of the disease have remained consistent over the past decade, with the highest incidences in Berlin, Bavaria, and Baden-Wuerttemberg. Listeriae cause disease in a broad range of hosts nationwide. Monitoring listeriosis in animals is crucial for public health and the safety of the food supply. Systematic collection of animal isolates is essential to understand transmission from environmental reservoirs to humans-a currently puzzling link. This knowledge is vital for protecting human health.