Listeria ice cream alert: What are the signs of listeria food poisoning, why pregnant women MUST be vigilant and what to do if YOU might have eaten a contaminated product

Dozens of ice creams have been urgently recalled from US supermarket shelves over fears they could be contaminated with listeria. 

Food safety watchdogs have stuck a 'do not eat' alert on more than 70 products manufactured by Totally Cool. 

It is feared the treats — including Friendly's ice cream cakes,Hershey's ice cream cones and Jeni's sandwiches — may contain the bacteria. 

The nasty bug,which can kill,usually causes a fever,sickness and diarrhoea. 

So just how worried should you be,who is most at risk,and what should you do if you think you've eaten a contaminated product? 

Here MailOnline explains everything you need to know.

Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams said Totally Cool was a 'supplier that produced Jeni's Frozen Dessert Sandwiches,' but doesn't make any other Jeni's products in the facility

What should I do if I've eaten a contaminated product? 

To date,there have been no reported illnesses linked to the consumption of any of the products. 

Consumers who have purchased any of the products are asked not to consume them. 

Instead,customers should return the products to the place of purchase for a full refund or throw them away. 

Customers with questions or concerns about the recall can contact Totally Cool Inc.'s customer service hotline 

How can you avoid listeriosis?

Food safety chiefs have long advised you should wash your hands before,during and after handling food. 

Wash utensils,cutting boards,and any surfaces that food touches after each use.

You should also store ready-to-eat foods as recommended by the manufacturer. 

According to the FDA,appliance thermometers will allow you to check your refrigerator is at or below 4ºC (40ºF) and your freezer is 0ºC (0ºF) or below. 

Between 4ºC and 60ºC (140ºF) is considered the danger zone — when bacteria can multiply rapidly. 

Generally,the more bacteria,the more likely someone will get sick. 

Most refrigerators have just a colder or warmer adjustment,so the only way to know is to put a thermometer inside.