14/03/2026
Salmonella is one of the most common causes of food poisoning, and health experts say it can infect people in ways many don’t expect.
According to Harvard Health Publishing, Salmonella bacteria cause an estimated 1.35 million illnesses each year in the United States. It is also the leading cause of hospitalizations and deaths related to foodborne illness.
Salmonella infections lead to a condition known as salmonellosis, which is a type of food poisoning. The bacteria are often found in raw or undercooked foods. Common sources include raw poultry, eggs, ground beef, raw cookie dough, flour, unpasteurized milk, and contaminated produce such as basil or cantaloupes.
The bacteria can also spread through contact with animals. Backyard chickens, turtles, frogs, and even dog food have been linked to Salmonella outbreaks in recent years. Because the bacteria are carried in animal f***s, they can easily spread through contaminated surfaces, soil, and equipment.
People can become infected by eating contaminated food or by touching contaminated surfaces and then putting their hands near their mouth. In some cases, a person may carry the bacteria on their hands or clothing and unknowingly spread it to others.
Most Salmonella infections cause gastroenteritis, which leads to symptoms such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Symptoms can begin as quickly as six hours after exposure and usually last two to three days.
In many cases, the illness is mild and resolves on its own without medication. Drinking fluids and electrolyte drinks can help prevent dehydration while the body clears the infection.
However, some infections can become more serious. Warning signs that require medical attention include diarrhea with a fever above 102°F, bloody stools, severe vomiting that prevents drinking fluids, or diarrhea that lasts longer than three days.
Certain groups of people are more vulnerable to severe illness. These include adults over 65, pregnant women, children under five, and individuals with weakened immune systems due to illness or medications.
In rare cases, Salmonella can enter the bloodstream and spread to other parts of the body such as bones, joints, the urinary tract, or the nervous system.
Health experts recommend several precautions to reduce the risk of infection. These include washing hands thoroughly before preparing food, cleaning cutting boards and kitchen surfaces after handling raw foods, refrigerating leftovers within two hours, and cooking meat and eggs thoroughly.
Extra caution is recommended for vulnerable individuals. Young children should avoid handling high-risk animals such as turtles or backyard poultry, and people with weakened immune systems should be especially careful with food preparation and hygiene.
Although Salmonella infections are common, many cases are preventable with proper food safety practices and good hygiene.
