How is salmonella transmitted through food or water?

1. Food:

- Salmonella can contaminate food at any point during production, processing, or preparation. Some common foods associated with salmonella outbreaks include:

- Raw or undercooked poultry, especially chicken

- Raw or undercooked eggs

- Unpasteurized milk or dairy products

- Contaminated fruits and vegetables (often due to contact with contaminated water or soil)

- Meat and poultry that have been cross-contaminated with raw meat or poultry juices

- Uncooked or undercooked shellfish

2. Water:

- Salmonella can also be transmitted through contaminated water, particularly in areas with poor sanitation or inadequate water treatment. Drinking or using contaminated water for food preparation, washing dishes, or brushing teeth can all lead to salmonella infection.

- Contaminated water sources may include:

- Untreated surface water (such as rivers or lakes)

- Shallow wells

- Polluted groundwater

- Contaminated public water supplies (in rare cases)