What Are the Treatments for Salmonella Typhimurium?

There are around 2,500 different strains of the bacterial genus known as Salmonella typhimurium. Common symptoms of this infection include abdominal pains, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. A salmonella infection is generally referred to as "food poisoning" and infects around 1.4 million Americans each year.

Acquiring the Infection

• The majority of salmonella infections are contracted through the ingestion of tainted food. Most people acquire this bacterium by eating raw eggs, raw meat, uncooked vegetables, and drinking contaminated water. Common household pets can also be carriers of the salmonella bacteria, including cats, dogs, and turtles.

Treatment

• Treatment for this illness includes the use of antibiotics, such as ciprofloxacin, for 10 to 14 days; although the use of antibiotics is becoming less common. Many doctors believe that because this infection will run a limited course, antibiotics are not always required. It is recommended that anyone infected with salmonella watch for signs of dehydration, which includes dry lips, increased thirst, dark urine, headaches, and dizziness. These symptoms should be treated with increased fluid intake, especially water.

Avoiding the Infection

• Prevention is the best way to stop a salmonella outbreak. A person who handles raw poultry, meat, or vegetables should wash his or her hands thoroughly. Use separate knives and cutting boards for meats and vegetables to avoid cross contamination. A person should also avoid contact with potentially infected animals, especially farm animals. If this is not possible, a thorough hand washing should follow this direct interaction.