Salmonella InfectionsNot what you're looking for? Show
What are salmonella infections?Salmonella infection is caused by the bacteria salmonella. Salmonella is a group of bacteria that can cause diarrhea in humans. There are many different kinds of salmonella bacteria. What causes salmonella infections?This infection is caused by the salmonella bacteria. The bacteria are passed from feces of people or animals to other people or animals. Contaminated foods are often animal in origin. They include beef, poultry, seafood, milk, or eggs. But all foods, including some unwashed fruits and vegetables, can become contaminated. Salmonella typhi is the 1 type of salmonella that lives only in humans. It is passed only from human to human through contaminated food or water. It tends to cause a serious and life-threatening infection called typhoid fever. Treatment often needs antibiotics. A small number of people who are treated may feel better after treatment. But they will continue to carry the organism and pass it through their feces to others through contaminated food or water. Who is at risk for salmonella infections?Anyone can get a salmonella infection. But young children, older adults, and people with certain health conditions such as HIV, sickle cell disease, cancer, or organ transplant are at greater risk for coming down with the disease if exposed to the germ. These factors can raise your risk of exposure:
What are the symptoms of salmonella infections?Symptoms develop 12 to 72 hours after infection. Each person may have different symptoms. But these are the most common ones:
These symptoms may look like other health problems. Always talk with your healthcare provider for a diagnosis. How are salmonella infections diagnosed?Many different illnesses have symptoms like salmonella. So diagnosis depends on lab tests that identify the bacteria in your stool, blood, or other sites of infection. How are salmonella infections treated?Treatment will depend on your symptoms, age, and general health. It will also depend on how severe the condition is. Gastrointestinal salmonella infections often run their course in 4 to 7 days. Often no treatment is needed. But if you have severe diarrhea, you may need rehydration with IV (intravenous) fluids and antibiotics. You will also need prompt treatment with antibiotics if:
What are possible complications of salmonella infections?Most people recover fully from a salmonella infection. The typhoid fever form of salmonella spreads to the bloodstream. It can cause prolonged fever and weight loss. It can lead to death. Salmonella can rarely spread to other parts of the body, such as the bones, liver, spleen, and the central nervous system. Some people may develop a condition called reactive arthritis weeks or even months later. It causes joint pain, eye irritation, and painful urination. Can salmonella infections be prevented?Foods of animal origin pose the greatest threat of salmonella contamination. So do not eat raw or undercooked eggs, poultry, seafood, or meats. Remember that some sauces and desserts use raw eggs in their preparation, so be cautious of these, particularly in foreign countries. Also follow these recommendations by the CDC:
No vaccine can prevent usual cases of salmonella infection. But there is a typhoid fever vaccine. It is often advised for people travelling to high risk areas of the world. Always talk with your healthcare provider at least 4 to 8 weeks before traveling outside the U.S. to see if you need any preventive vaccines or other treatments. When should I call my healthcare provider?If your symptoms get worse or you get new symptoms, let your healthcare provider know. If your diarrhea lasts more than a few days or gets worse, you may get dehydrated and need IV fluids and antibiotics. Key points about salmonella infections
Next stepsTips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:
Medical Reviewer: Barry Zingman MD Medical Reviewer: Raymond Turley Jr PA-C Medical Reviewer: L Renee Watson MSN RN © 2000-2022 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions. Not what you're looking for? How does Salmonella affect the body?When Salmonella bacteria are ingested, they pass through a person's stomach and colonize the small and large intestine. There, the bacteria invade the intestinal mucosa and proliferate. The bacteria can invade the lymphoid tissues of the gastrointestinal tract and spread to the bloodstream.
How long does it take to get over Salmonella poisoning?Most people develop diarrhea, fever and stomach (abdominal) cramps within 8 to 72 hours after exposure. Most healthy people recover within a few days to a week without specific treatment.
What are the 5 symptoms of a salmonella infection?Should I call the doctor?. Diarrhea and a fever higher than 102°F.. Diarrhea for more than 3 days that is not improving.. Bloody stools.. Prolonged vomiting that prevents you from keeping liquids down.. Signs of dehydration, such as: Making very little urine. Dry mouth and throat. Dizziness when standing up.. How does Salmonella poisoning make you feel?“Salmonella” is what we commonly call it when you get sick with diarrhea and stomach pains from Salmonella bacteria (gastroenteritis). It's the most common form of bacterial food poisoning in the U.S.
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