This is why listeria matters, especially to pregnant women and others who may be immunocompromised.

Two Oregon mothers have been sickened by listeria after eating tainted Mexican-style cheese made in Yakima, causing their babies to be born with a serious illness.

Another person got sick as well in Washington state after eating Queso Fresco made by Queseria Bendita in Yakima. The firm’s three cheeses, including Requeson and Panela, are being recalled.

William Keene, senior epidemiologist with the Public Health Division, said,

“All of these people were hospitalized. No one has died but with five people we’re lucky. … Queso fresco is a recurrent source of problems because it’s made with raw milk and often under poor conditions.”