Facts About Salmonella Bacteria

Salmonella is a rod-shaped bacterium that lives in the intestines of people and animals and is spread from feces of people or animals. Salmonella accounts for most reported food-borne illnesses. (See Reference 1)

Salmonellosis

• Salmonella causes the infection salmonellosis. This food-borne illness generally occurs when people eat foods contaminated with animal feces. The illness can be spread by cross-contamination, allowing raw foods to contact foods that are ready to eat. Salmonellosis can occur if the cook does not wash his or her hands properly before cooking. Contaminated foods generally do not look, smell or taste differently. (See Reference 1)

Symptoms

• Diarrhea, accompanied by abdominal cramping and fever, usually occurs within 8 to 72 hours after eating contaminated foods. Headaches, chills, nausea and vomiting are additional possible symptoms, usually lasting no longer than 4 to 7 days. (See Reference 1)

Sources

• Raw meat, poultry and seafood can become contaminated with salmonella bacteria during the butchering process. Raw eggs may be contaminated if the chicken is infected. Fruits and vegetables may be watered or rinsed with contaminated water. (See Reference 2) Also, reptiles often harbor salmonella, which can spread to humans if hands are not properly washed after handling. (See Reference 1)

Avoidance

• Salmonella bacteria can be killed if the infected food is cooked properly by reaching safe minimal internal temperatures. Wash your hands and cooking surfaces often and thoroughly, and do not cross-contaminate your foods. (See Reference 1)

Treatment

• Most cases do not require medical attention. Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration, and pain relievers can be used to reduce the fever. In more extreme cases or in people who are at risk, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics to kill the bacteria. (See Reference 1)