Salmonella refers to a genus of rod shaped bacterium. Some of these salmonella bacterium are responsible for many illnesses in humans and other animals. Most commonly, salmonella is the cause of food poisoning and typhoid fever. Salmonella lives in the intestines of mammals, birds and reptiles and is usually harmless.
Symptoms of salmonellosis
The symptoms of salmonellosis are similar to those of a stomach virus. They include:
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Vomiting (occasionally)
If you become infected with salmonella, these symptoms typically appear between 12 and 72 hours after exposure to the bacteria. They usually last between 4 and 7 days and resolve on their own without treatment.
The type of salmonella usually associated with infections in humans is called Non-Typhoidal Salmonella. It is usually contracted from sources such as:
- Poultry, pork, and cattle, if the meat is prepared incorrectly or somehow becomes infected with the bacteria.
- Infected eggs and milk, as well as egg products, when not prepared, handled, or refrigerated properly.
- Reptiles such as turtles, lizards, and snakes, as they can carry the bacteria on their skin.
- Pet rodents
- Tainted fruits and vegetables
A rarer form of salmonella called typhoidal salmonella can lead to typhoid fever. It is only carried by humans and is usually contracted through direct contact with the fecal matter of an infected person. It therefore mainly occurs in countries that do not have advanced systems for handling human waste.
Prevention of Salmonella
- Good preventive measures are able to minimize the risk of contracting a food-borne illness caused by Salmonella bacteria.
- Hand washing
- keeping work surfaces clean
- Cooked food to an adequately high temperature
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