Salmonella infection or salmonellosis is a common bacterial disease that occurs in our digestive system. Salmonella bacteria are commonly found in the intestines of animals and humans, where they are expelled through stool. Humans are most usually infected by contaminated water or food.
According to MayoClinc, most persons often suffer from diarrhoea, fever, and stomach abdominal pain between 8 and 72 hours following exposure. Most healthy people recover in a few days to a week without any special therapy.
It is important to understand the causes and symptoms of salmonella infection is important for prevention and timely treatment.
Causes of Salmonella Infection
Contaminated Food
“One of the most common causes of salmonella infection is consuming food contaminated with the bacteria. Foods most often associated with salmonella include raw or undercooked eggs, poultry, meat, unpasteurised milk and dairy products, and seafood. Fruits and vegetables can also become contaminated,” said Dr Sanjay Chaudhary, MBBS, MD, New Delhi.
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Infected Animals
“Certain animals, particularly reptiles, amphibians, and birds, can carry Salmonella without appearing ill. Handling these animals or their environments without proper hygiene can lead to infection,” said Dr Sanjay Chaudhary.
Person-to-Person Transmission
As per Dr Chaudhary, salmonella can be spread from person to person through the fecal-oral route. This can happen if an infected person does not wash their hands properly after using the bathroom and then touches food or objects.
Contaminated Water
One should avoid drinking or swimming in water that has been contaminated with Salmonella can also lead to infection.
Symptoms of Salmonella Infection
Symptoms of salmonella infection typically start 6 hours to 6 days after infection and can include:
- Diarrhoea: This can be severe and sometimes bloody.
- Abdominal Cramps: These can be painful and are often severe.
- Fever: A high temperature is common with salmonella infections.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Many people with salmonella infection will experience bouts of nausea and vomiting.
- Headache and Muscle Pains: These flu-like symptoms can accompany the gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Dehydration: Symptoms of dehydration can include dry mouth and throat, feeling dizzy when standing up, and not peeing very much.
- The elderly, infants, and those with impaired immune systems are more likely to have a severe illness.
Prevention of Salmonella Infection
Preventing salmonella infection involves measures to avoid consuming contaminated food and water and ensuring proper hygiene, especially after handling animals or going to the bathroom. Here are some key prevention tips:
- Cook Food Thoroughly: Most importantly insure that poultry, meat, and eggs are cooked to a safe internal temperature to kill any bacteria.
- Avoid Cross-Contamination: Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat and other foods. Wash hands, kitchen surfaces, and utensils with soap and water immediately after they have been in contact with raw meat or eggs.
- Wash Fruits and Vegetables: Rinse fresh fruits and vegetables under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking.
- Refrigerate Perishables Promptly: Keep perishable foods refrigerated and do not leave them out for more than 2 hours.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling pets or animals, going to the bathroom, and before preparing or eating food.
If you suspect you have a salmonella infection, stay hydrated and seek medical assistance if the symptoms worsen or continue. In some circumstances, antibiotics may be required to treat the infection, particularly for people who are more likely to develop problems.