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Molecular Biology of Salmonella Infections

The gram-negative, rod-shaped bacteria called Salmonella is responsible for causing salmonellosis. Salmonellosis causes infection in the digestive tract in humans. Infection caused by Salmonella causes fever and/or bloody diarrhea.

  1. Symptoms

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of a Salmonella infection may include: diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps within 12 to 72 hours of infection. Symptoms range from mild to debilitating.

    Biology of Infection

    • Ingestion of the bacteria Salmonella typhimurium or Salmonella enteritidis causes Salmonellosis. Salmonella synthesizes a capsule that allows it to pass unharmed through the low pH (high acidity) of the stomach. Inside the intestine, the bacteria reproduces. Damage to the intestinal cell lining causes diarrhea and fever. In the 2005 textbook "Microbiology", authors Lansing M. Prescott, John P. Harley and Robert A. Klein state that it takes greater than 1,000,000 organisms to cause an infection.

    Causes of Infection

    • The Centers for Disease Control states that eating foods contaminated with Salmonella bacteria is the main cause of Salmonella infection. Foods commonly harboring Salmonella include: milk, eggs, poultry and beef. Unwashed vegetables are another potential reservoir for Salmonella. Animal fecal matter may also contain Salmonella.

    Prevention

    • Prevention of infection by Salmonella is attained by washing and fully cooking foods before consumption. After contact with family pets or other animals in a natural setting, adhere to a strict washing procedure.

    Treatment

    • Mild cases of salmonellosis only require home treatment of maintaining fluids, to avoid dehydration. Severe cases, when the infection spreads from the intestines, require antibiotic treatment.

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