15697 Salmonella

Overview

Salmonella is a type of bacteria that commonly causes food poisoning. It infects the gut and leads to diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps.

Yes. Salmonella is one of the most common causes of foodborne illness worldwide.

Anyone can get a salmonella infection, but young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to become seriously ill.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Chills
• Blood in the stool

Symptoms in children

• Diarrhea and vomiting
• Fever and fussiness
• Poor feeding or not drinking enough
• Fewer wet nappies or signs of dehydration
• Sunken eyes or no tears when crying

Symptoms in older adults

• More severe diarrhea
• High fever
• Dizziness or feeling faint
• Confusion or unusual sleepiness
• Signs of dehydration, like dry mouth or little urination

Causes

Main causes

• Eating undercooked poultry, eggs, or meat
• Drinking unpasteurized milk or juice
• Eating raw or contaminated fruits and vegetables
• Touching infected animals, especially reptiles, chicks, and other birds
• Drinking water contaminated with sewage or animal waste
• Not washing hands after using the bathroom

Risk factors

• Being a young child or an older adult
• Having a weakened immune system (for example, from cancer treatment or HIV)
• Taking medicines that reduce stomach acid
• Having inflammatory bowel disease
• Traveling to areas with poor sanitation or unsafe food and water

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Severe diarrhea or fever that is not getting better
• Signs of dehydration, such as dizziness, little urination, or a very dry mouth
• Blood in the stool
• Vomiting that will not stop
• If the person is an infant, older adult, or has a weakened immune system

Book a routine appointment if:

• Mild symptoms that last more than a couple of days and you are concerned
• If you have an underlying health condition and want advice on how to manage
• If you need a note for work or school while recovering

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about your symptoms, what you ate recently, and whether you have been around sick animals or people. A stool test is the usual way to confirm salmonella.

Tests that may be done

• Stool sample test to look for the bacteria
• Blood test in severe cases to check for spread of infection

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor may give you advice on managing symptoms and stopping the infection from spreading to others. Test results may take a few days. In the meantime, rest, drink fluids, and wash your hands often.

Treatment

The main treatment for salmonella is to replace lost fluids and electrolytes and let your body fight off the infection. Most people recover without any specific medicine.

Self-care at home

• Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, clear broth, or an oral rehydration solution
• Rest as much as possible
• Eat bland, easy-to-digest foods like rice, toast, bananas, and applesauce when you feel ready
• Avoid dairy, spicy, fatty, or very sugary foods until you feel better
• Wash your hands often, especially after using the bathroom
• Stay home from work, school, or childcare until the diarrhea has stopped

Medical treatments

In some cases, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics if the infection is severe or if you are at high risk of complications. If dehydration is serious, you may need intravenous (IV) fluids in a hospital. Always follow your healthcare provider's advice.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used to treat a salmonella infection. The infection clears with time and supportive care.

Living with this condition

While you are sick, rest at home and drink fluids often. Use your own towel and wash laundry thoroughly. Clean bathroom surfaces regularly with disinfectant.

Lifestyle tips

• Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Cook meat, poultry, and eggs thoroughly
• Keep raw meat away from other foods
• Wash fruits and vegetables before eating
• Avoid swimming pools or sharing baths until diarrhea has stopped

Diet and exercise

Eat bland, low-fiber foods until your stomach settles. Avoid dairy, caffeine, alcohol, and greasy foods. When you feel stronger, gradually return to exercise, but rest if you feel tired.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Being ill with diarrhea and vomiting can be stressful and uncomfortable. Most people feel better within a week. If you feel anxious, upset, or worried, talk with your doctor or someone you trust.

Prevention

Yes. You can prevent most salmonella infections by washing your hands well, cooking food thoroughly, and avoiding raw or unpasteurized products.

Vaccines

There is no routine vaccine for salmonella in the general population.

Screening programmes

No routine screening is offered. Testing is done when someone has symptoms that suggest salmonella.

Complications

If left untreated

• Severe dehydration needing hospital care
• Infection spreading into the bloodstream (bacteremia)
• Joint pain or swelling called reactive arthritis
• Sepsis, a life-threatening reaction to infection

Long-term outlook

With rest and fluids, most people recover fully in about a week. For older adults, young children, or those with weak immune systems, hospital treatment is very effective when needed. Early medical help can catch problems early and improve recovery.

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