Overview

Salmonella sickness, also referred to as salmonellosis, is a bacterial infection caused by the salmonella germ. The salmonella germ, according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) is a "microscopic living creature that passes from the feces of people or animals to other people or other animals." Once infected with the salmonella germ, symptoms typically arise within 72 hours.

Symptoms

Salmonellosis is, in general, food poisoning. Symptoms of salmonella food poisoning may include muscle pain, vomiting, fever and diarrhea.

Complications

In some individuals, complication can arise and may include dehydration, Reiter's syndrome and bacteremia (blood infection), which affects certain tissues in the body and may cause endocarditis, meningitis and osteomyelitis.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of salmonellosis is typically conducted by sending a stool sample to a laboratory for microscopic testing for the salmonellosis germ.

Treatment

In mild cases, salmonellosis may simply run its course and no treatment is needed. However, in some individuals treatment may be required. Treatment may included antibiotics and anti-diarrhea medication.

Prevention

Prevention of salmonella poisoning may not always be possible. However, you can avoid the spread of the salmonella germ from human to human by washing your hands thoroughly after using the restroom and before handling food.