Salmonella Poisoning

What Is Salmonella?

Salmonella poisoning (also called salmonellosis) is an infection caused by bacteria in the Salmonella family. It’s one of the most frequent causes of foodborne illness in the U.S.

People usually get sick by eating food or drinking water that has been contaminated with the bacteria. In most cases, symptoms are mild, but for young children, older adults, pregnant people and those with weakened immune systems, the illness can become serious.

Each year, salmonella causes over a million infections in the U.S., with thousands of hospitalizations and some deaths. The good news? It’s mostly preventable.

How Do You Get Salmonella?

You can get salmonella by eating or drinking something that carries the bacteria. Common sources include:

• Undercooked eggs, poultry or meat
• Raw milk or other unpasteurized dairy products
• Contaminated fruits and vegetables
• Contact with animals such as cattle, chickens, rodents, reptiles or amphibians, or with their habitats
• Handling pet food, especially pet food that contains raw meat
• Infected people who don’t wash their hands properly after using the bathroom

Cross-contamination in kitchens, such as when using the same cutting board for raw meat and vegetables, can also spread the bacteria.

Salmonella Symptoms

Symptoms usually appear 6 hours to 6 days after infection and may include:

• Diarrhea (sometimes bloody)
• Fever
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache

Most people recover in 4 to 7 days without needing medication. However, dehydration from diarrhea can be dangerous, especially for vulnerable individuals.

While uncommon, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream and lead to serious, potentially life-threatening health problems.

How Is Salmonella Diagnosed?

If you have symptoms of salmonella, especially after eating high-risk foods or during a known salmonella outbreak, your health care provider may:

• Ask about your symptoms and recent meals
• Order a stool test to test for salmonella bacteria
• Run blood tests if symptoms are severe or long-lasting

Testing helps confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of food poisoning.

How Is Salmonella Treated?

Most cases of salmonella poisoning resolve without treatment, but it’s important to manage symptoms at home.

At-Home Care:

• Drink plenty of fluids – Water, oral rehydration solutions or clear broths help prevent dehydration.
• Rest – So your body can recover
• Eat light meals – Start with bland foods like crackers, toast, rice or applesauce as you feel better.
• Avoid anti-diarrheal medications like Imodium or Pepto Bismol unless directed by your health care provider as they can slow the body's ability to clear the infection.

When to Seek Medical Help:

Contact your health care provider right away if you or your child has any of the following:

• Diarrhea that continues for more than three days
• Blood present in the stool
• A fever higher than 102°F
• Symptoms of dehydration, such as a dry mouth, feeling lightheaded or not urinating much

For high-risk individuals, antibiotics may be prescribed.

How to Prevent Salmonella

Most salmonella infections can be avoided by following smart food safety habits:

• Wash hands often – Especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, or handling pets.
• Cook food thoroughly – Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperatures.
• Avoid raw or undercooked eggs, meat, and poultry
• Keep raw foods separate – Prevent cross-contamination by using different cutting boards for meat and produce.
• Wash fruits and vegetables before eating, even if you plan to peel them.
• Avoid raw milk and products made from it
• Stay informed about food recalls and known salmonella outbreaks from sources like the CDC or FDA.

If you have a reptile, amphibian or live poultry at home, be sure to wash your hands after contact and avoid letting them near kitchen areas.

If you suspect salmonella poisoning, rest and stay hydrated. Most people improve within a week. However, if you’re in a high-risk group or your symptoms are severe, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

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