We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What are the Symptoms of a Salmonella Infection?

Jessica Ellis
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 1,950
Share

Salmonella is a bacterial infection easily contracted by humans. To become infected, a person must ingest the bacteria, which is found in a variety of places. Undercooked or badly prepared food, drinking or using contaminated water, even handling reptiles can cause infection. To prevent salmonella infection from becoming a serious illness, look carefully for any of the following symptoms.

Most typically, salmonella infection first presents with common food poisoning symptoms. Stomach pain, nausea and vomiting are among the most common initial symptoms. Fever, headaches, and watery bowel movements can also be signs. Symptoms typically first occur within one to three days of exposure, and can last up to a week. Even after symptoms subside, you may feel fatigued and experience dehydration.

People with healthy immune systems may experience these symptoms and return to normal, as their bodies are able to clear out the salmonella infection without medical attention. However, salmonella infection can become a serious and even life-threatening illness, particularly for those with weaker immune systems, such as very young children. If symptoms worsen or do not subside after a few days, a doctor should be consulted.

Although the majority of salmonella infections clear naturally, they can progress to much more serious and even fatal illnesses. If the bacteria enters the bloodstream, infection in brain or spinal tissues is possible, resulting in potentially life-threatening diseases like meningitis. Additionally, severe salmonella infection with the S.typhi bacteria can lead to typhoid fever, characterized by a spot-like rash and coughing as well as stomach symptoms. If you develop any of these symptoms, see a doctor immediately.

Focusing on prevention is the best way to avoid contracting salmonella or other bacteria related infections. Be certain to cook all foods to recommended internal temperatures, and wash vegetables and fruit thoroughly before consuming. If you own or play with reptiles, wash hands carefully after handling, especially before eating.

According to experts, exposure to salmonella bacteria is extremely common, mostly due to carelessness. To decrease your chances of becoming ill, avoid any restaurants with questionable cleanliness or a history of health code violations. However, recent years have seen an upswing in mass infections traced back to reputable distributors and companies, such as the peanut butter outbreak of 2009 which affected consumers in 42 states and led to one of the largest recalls of product in United States history. Be certain to avoid any products currently under government recall and throw out or return any food item already purchased that is recalled.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Jessica Ellis
By Jessica Ellis
With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica Ellis brings a unique perspective to her work as a writer for WiseGeek. While passionate about drama and film, Jessica enjoys learning and writing about a wide range of topics, creating content that is both informative and engaging for readers.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis
With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica Ellis...
Learn more
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-the-symptoms-of-a-salmonella-infection.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.