4 Common Signs Of Salmonella Infection

Salmonella infection is the result of eating foods contaminated with the salmonella bacteria, and this infection is referred as salmonellosis. The infection affects the intestinal tract and even the bloodstream. Aside from eating contaminated foods, there are also other ways wherein a person can be infected with salmonella.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated that there are approximately 1.2 million cases of salmonella infection. Of these cases, there are 23,000 hospitalizations and 450 deaths in the United States every year.

There are certain groups of people who are at higher risk of contracting this infection. These groups include those who are eating a lot of animal-sourced foods; people traveling to countries with poor sanitation; pregnant women; those who have weak immune systems; transplant recipients; and people older than 65 or younger than 20. Additionally, pet owners are also at risk since the feces of some animals might contain salmonella.

It is important to take note that not everyone will manifest the apparent symptoms. But, these 4 common signs could immediately be recognized within a few hours up to 3 days after eating foods tainted with salmonella.

1. Nausea – Those who are infected with salmonella may experience severe discomfort which will be in a form vomiting and nausea. Dr. William A. Schaffner, an infectious disease specialist at Vanderbilt Medical School in Nashville, Tennessee said that when a person throws up, they need to be replenished with fluids to avoid dehydration.

2. Abdominal Cramps – The bacteria is residing in the digestive system, hence, the abdominal muscles will start contracting. This will lead to painful cramps and loss of appetite.

3. Diarrhea – Salmonella has the ability to destroy the fluid absorption and retention of the body, causing the person to suffer from diarrhea. It may probably take a month before the bowel system recovers, so it is important to stay hydrated. But, if the diarrhea is bloody, immediate medical assistance is needed.

4. Fever – The fever in salmonella infection is between 100°F to 102°F. This will then be followed by a headache, body ache, and a feeling of being entirely sick. If the fever exceeds 101.5°F, it is recommended to visit a doctor.

The infection might be gone within 3 to 7 days if it is not really severe. Experts highly suggest that those who are vulnerable or at risks should avoid eating undercooked or raw animal-sourced foods, should always wash their hands, and keep the surface of their kitchen clean.