Salmonella food poisoning has been a growing concern in recent news. It has frequently lead to recalls of beef, salads and organic products and, even peanut butter products. Salmonella food poisoning occurs when one eats raw or undercooked foods such meat, poultry, eggs or egg products. Properly cooked food can get contaminated with Salmonella if it comes into contact with surfaces were not cleaned properly after being used to prepare raw meat and other foods. Unhygienic handling of food can result in food contamination. People can also be exposed to Salmonella through contact with contaminated pet foods or infected animals, including reptiles, amphibians, pocket pets (hedgehogs, rodents), birds, livestock, and dogs and cats.
The illness caused by Salmonella is called salmonellosis.
Symptoms and Signs of Salmonella food poisoning
Possible signs and symptoms Salmonella food poisoning may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal cramps
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Chills
- Headache
- Blood in the stool
How long do the symptoms of Salmonella food poisoning last?
The symptoms of salmonellosis generally occur within 6 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food or drinking water containing the bacteria. The symptoms may last for 4 to 7 days.
Most people who become ill from Salmonella bacteria will recover fully after a few days.
In severe cases, salmonellosis can cause serious illness and sometimes death. People with weakened immune system such as seniors, infants or people undergoing medical treatment are at higher risk of serious illness. In rare cases, severe complications can occur where people may experience chronic symptoms, such as reactive arthritis three to four weeks later.
Treatment for Salmonella food poisoning
Treatment of salmonellosis include drinking plenty of liquids to replace the body fluids lost through diarrhea and vomiting. In severe cases, treatment involve administering the fluids intravenously.
We can help! For more information about our Salmonella, other bacteria or mold testing services, please contact Mold & Bacteria Consulting Laboratories, please call our Ontario, Mississauga Office at 905-290-9101 or the British Columbia, Burnaby Office at 604-435-6555.