Jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes, is usually caused by which foodborne illness?

Jaundice is a significant symptom associated with Hepatitis A, a viral infection that affects the liver. When someone is infected with Hepatitis A, their liver can become inflamed, leading to a disruption in its normal functions. One of the effects of liver inflammation is the accumulation of bilirubin, a substance that causes the yellowing of the skin and eyes. This symptom is a clear indicator of liver dysfunction and is a key characteristic of Hepatitis A infections.

In contrast, the other foodborne illnesses listed do not typically present jaundice as a symptom. Norovirus primarily causes gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. Salmonella infections usually lead to nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps but not jaundice. Listeria monocytogenes is associated with flu-like symptoms and severe complications, particularly in pregnant women, but again does not cause jaundice. Understanding the specific symptoms associated with each foodborne illness helps in accurately diagnosing and managing food safety concerns.