Salmonellosis is one of the most common types of
bacterial food poisoning that affects the intestinal tract of the body. It is usually contracted by consuming contaminated food or drinks with the Salmonella bacterium. There are many species under the genus Salmonella but the most common types affecting the population are serotype Typhimurium and Enteritidis. This bacterium usually live in human and other animal intestines and are excreted through feces.
The problem with food contaminated with salmonellosis is that it may appear and smell normal thus, there are no signs of contamination. Extra precaution is necessary when handling foods most often contaminated with salmonellosis, which include beef, poultry, milk and eggs. Individuals with weak immune system, at a very young or old age, or those who live with persons recently infected with salmonella infection or certain pets are more at risk of getting this type of infection,
Causes of Salmonellosis
The most common cause of salmonellosis is by consumption of contaminated food or water. The following are the specific causes of salmonellosis:
- Food contamination can occur during food processing or food handling
- Contamination by preparation of food by unwashed hands, especially if soap is not used
- Direct contact with feces of pets infected with Salmonellosis, especially if they have diarrhoea and one does not wash hands
- Certain animals, particularly reptiles, baby chicks and duckling, and small rodents are likely to carry Salmonella thus one who does not wash hands after handling these animals may get salmonellosis
Symptoms of Salmonellosis
The incubation period of the Salmonella bacterium is usually within eight to 72 hours. Most infections of salmonella can be classified as gastroenteritis. It would generally take four to seven days for symptoms to clear up. Signs and symptoms of salmonellosis can include:
- Nausea and vomiting, possibly with presence of blood in the stool
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhoea
- Fever and chills
- Headache
- Muscle pains
First Aid Management for Salmonellosis
The main goal for treatment for salmonellosis is to treat the symptoms and avoid dehydration from occurring. The following tips can help manage salmonellosis:
- Drink eight to ten glasses of clear fluids, preferably water.
- Every time there is a loose bowel movement, drink at least one cup of liquid.
- Instead of eating three big meals, eat small meals instead.
- Put some salty food in the diet, such as pretzels, soup, and sports drinks.
- Eat foods high in potassium, such as bananas, potatoes without the skin and fruit juices with plenty of water.
- It is not ideal to take anti-diarrheal medications as it may cause the infection to last longer.
Disclaimer: This article does not provide medical advice and should not be substituted for formal training. The information given should not be used for self-diagnosis. Seek medical attention when necessary. It is important to recognise potential medical emergencies at all times to avoid complications from developing. To learn more about how to manage salmonellosis food poisoning, enrol in First Aid Courses and CPR Courses with Red Cross Training.
Online Sources:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/salmonella/DS00926
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000294.htm
http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/food-poisoning/tc/salmonellosis-topic-overview