Salmonella bacteria live in the intestinal tracts of people and animals, and are often passed on from the meal preparation to food consumption process. Proper precautions can be taken by food service workers and consumers to prevent food poisoning. Salmonella infection may take from one to three days before symptoms develop, according to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. Diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps and vomiting may occur during the illness, which may last four to seven days.
Food
Many raw foods--including meat, poultry, unpasteurized milk, eggs, seafood, fruits and vegetables--carry salmonella. Some foods such as meats can be contaminated during the butchering process. Fish may carry salmonella if harvested in contaminated waters. Some fruits and vegetables may get contaminated while being washed with contaminated water in the field, or during the washing process before distribution. Thorough washing of these foods is necessary before consumption. Meats, poultry and fish should be cooked properly.
Food Handlers
Improper hygiene on the part of food handlers can spread salmonella and cause outbreaks. People preparing food should pay special attention to washing their hands frequently. Just as the infection can spread in public restaurants, salmonella can also spread in the home when improperly prepared in the kitchen. Some raw foods can contaminate produce or cooked foods during preparation, so they should be kept separate while preparing. The infection can also be spread from cutting boards, counters and kitchen utensils. These instruments and the preparer's hands should be washed thoroughly before and after handling different food items, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Animals
Many people don't realize that the handling of certain animals can spread the salmonella infection. Snakes, turtles, lizards and other reptiles may carry it. Frogs may be contaminated. Birds and baby chicks may carry salmonella. Children may be exposed to salmonella by holding and cuddling birds. It's important for people to immediately wash their hands after touching these animals, whether they are pets or are in the animal environment. The CDC notes that people should wash their hands thoroughly when coming into contact with animal feces.
After Contamination
Usually, people don't need medical treatment when salmonella poisoning strikes, but they have several days of illness until it passes. Drinking lots of fluids is essential, because bouts of diarrhea can cause dehydration. Intravenous hydration treatment may be necessary in cases of dehydration. Antibiotics may be used if symptoms persist and there is an indication the infection has spread outside of the intestines.
