MAIN Health Salmonella Food Poisoning

One of the most common food related illnesses is caused by salmonella bacteria. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 1.4 million cases of salmonella poisoning occur in the United States each year.

Salmonella food poisoning occurs when a person consumes food or beverages that are contaminated with salmonella bacteria.

Most often, the bacteria enters the body through ingestion of tainted beef, poultry, eggs, or fish. Fruits and vegetables can also become infected through cross contamination, or when they are placed on the same surface as contaminated foods. As 2009 headlines attest, peanut butter may also become contaminated as a direct result of poor hygienic conditions found in food processing plants.

How to prevent salmonella poisoning

Salmonella food poisoning can be prevented through proper hygiene and handling of food. Experts advise that hand washing during and after preparing meal - along with thorough cleaning of cooking utensils and kitchen work spaces to prevent cross contamination - are simple ways to avoid contracting the illness.

Along with the dangers associated with food, pet owners are also warned to wash their hands after handling of turtles, snakes and other reptiles, which are also known to carry the bacteria.

Symptoms & complications of salmonella poisoning

The symptoms of salmonella food poisoning usually occur within 12 to 72 hours of infection. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever, headache, muscle aches and chills. Salmonella usually resolves in 4 to 7 days and may not require treatment. Recovery is normally complete without any adverse lasting effects. If severe dehydration occurs hospitalization may be required to administer intravenous fluids. Severe dehydration is more likely to occur in young children and the elderly.

A complication of salmonella poisoning that may occur is Reiter's syndrome, also known as reactive arthritis. Reiter's syndrome is actually a group of disorders that cause inflammation throughout the body. It can lead to chronic arthritis. The condition can be treated with medication such as anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve symptoms.

Due to the dangers of developing severe symptoms or conditions associated with salmonella food poisoning, anyone who suspects they have eaten contaminated food should seek medical attention promptly.

More information about salmonella food poisoning around the Web:

Salmonella Food Poisoning - Good overview of causes, prevention and treatment options including home care tips, when to see a doctor, and what to expect during hospital treatment for more serious cases.

Food Poisoning Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention - MedicineNet guide with facts & information on salmonella, e-coli and other common sources of food poisoning.

Salmonella - Wikipedia overview with information on common sources of infection, related statistics and resources.

Salmonella Questions and Answers - USDA fact sheet on causes and prevention including food cooking and refrigeration tips.

This information is intended as reference and not as medical advice.
All treatment decisions should be made by medical professionals.