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A salmonella outbreak tied to eggs from a California-based distributor has led to illnesses and hospitalizations across multiple states, according to U.S. health officials.
- Salmonella infection (salmonellosis) is a common bacterial disease that affects the intestinal tract.
- Caused by - It is usually caused by eating raw or undercooked meat, poultry, and eggs or egg products or by drinking unpasteurized milk.
- Transmission - Salmonella bacteria typically live in animal and human intestines and are shed through stool (feces).
- Humans become infected most frequently through contaminated water or food.
- It spreads person-to-person via contaminated hands, surfaces, and utensils.
- Close contact with infected individuals or animals increases risk, especially in poor hygiene conditions.
- Symptoms
- Upset stomach
- Bloody stool
- Diarrhea
- Fever with chills
- Pain and cramps in belly
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Some people with salmonella infection have no symptoms.
- Most people develop diarrhea, fever and stomach (abdominal) cramps within 8 to 72 hours after exposure.
- Most healthy people recover within a few days to a week without specific treatment.
- In some cases, diarrhea can cause severe dehydration and requires prompt medical attention.
- Severity - Life-threatening complications also may develop if the infection spreads beyond the intestines.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over a million people in the US get infected, and around 420 deaths are reported each year.
Reference
Hindustan Times | Salmonella outbreak in US
