Salmonella infections are very common. They may cause up to one-third of all the cases of diarrhea produced by contaminated food. The Salmonella bacteria may be found in meats, chicken, milk, unpasteurized cheese, eggs and cocoa beans. Occasionally, pet turtles may harbor the disorder. The disease most commonly affects the gastrointestinal tract and the lymphatic system. A relatively mild Salmonella infection may be mistaken for a simple stomach ache. Salmonella infections occur more often in people over 70 or under 20 (highest frequency in infants under age 1).
Causes of Salmonella Infections
Salmonella infections are produced after consuming Salmonella bacteria. This can occur after eating food such as meat, poultry, raw milk or eggs, or drinking water that contains the bacteria. Salmonella bacteria can survive freezing, but thorough cooking kills them. Pet animals, such as pet turtles, can also carry Salmonella bacteria. Epidemics occur when many people eat the same contaminated food at a picnic, social gathering or restaurant. The infection can be contagious by the oral-fecal route. such as might happen after changing the diaper of an infected baby.
Signs and Symptoms of Salmonella Infections
The symptoms produced by Salmonella infections are similar to other gastrointestinal infections or food poisoning. They include diarrhea and abdominal pain. The diarrhea may become very watery and very frequent. Nausea, vomiting, fever and headache can occur. Occasionally, there may be blood in the stool.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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