How Do You Get a Salmonella Infection?

Salmonella Infection Tampa FLIn the United States, the most common source of foodborne illness is a type of bacteria (in the genus Salmonella) that can live in the intestines of humans, animals, reptiles, and birds. These bacteria are shed through feces. You can become infected with salmonella by ingesting the bacteria – even a microscopic amount – via your mouth.

How can salmonella be ingested?

Most salmonella infections are contracted through the consumption of contaminated foods, such as:

  • Fresh produce – Fruits and vegetables may be hydrated in a field or otherwise processed with contaminated water.
  • Raw eggs – Even though salmonella cannot penetrate an eggshell, an infected chicken can produce eggs that are contaminated with salmonella prior to the formation of the eggshell.
  • Raw meat and poultry – During the butchering process, raw meat and poultry can potentially come in contact with animal feces.
  • Seafood – Fish and shellfish that are harvested from contaminated water may harbor salmonella.

Salmonella can also spread during the preparation of any type of food. For instance, if ready-to-eat food is placed on a surface that previously held contaminated eggs, meat, poultry, or seafood, it may become contaminated as well. Food can also become contaminated if it is handled by an individual who didn’t wash his or her hands thoroughly after using a restroom or changing a diaper.

What are the symptoms of a salmonella infection?

In order to produce symptoms, salmonella bacteria must survive the high level of acidity in the stomach and compete with other bacteria in the gut to colonize the small and large intestine. However, certain foods can protect the bacteria from the stomach’s acid, and certain individuals – including infants, young children, pregnant women, older adults, transplant recipients and people with a weakened immune system — are more susceptible to infection.

A salmonella infection that “takes hold” in the digestive tract can cause gastroenteritis (stomach flu), which may produce:

  • Abdominal cramping
  • Watery diarrhea
  • Bloody stool
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fever and chills

In general, the symptoms of a salmonella infection may last between two and seven days, although it can take a few months for bowel function to completely return to normal. During recovery, it’s important to stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water, which can help combat the dehydrating effects of the associated diarrhea.

If you are experiencing the symptoms of a salmonella infection, contact or visit South Tampa Immediate Care in Tampa, FL, where you can promptly see a physician without an appointment.