Salmonella Onset & Prognosis
Salmonella affects many people each year. It is important to know the symptoms so you can recognize it right away and be treated promptly.
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What is Salmonella?
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Salmonella is a bacteria that most often causes food borne illness. Other strains can also cause typhoid fever, a more serious condition. A person who eats contaminated food or comes in close contact with someone who is infected can contract the illness.
How it is Spread
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Salmonella is spread when a person that carries the bacteria does not wash their hands. The bacteria can then be spread to food, either in the packing and shipping process, or sometimes even in a kitchen. When this food is ingested, the person will become ill. Salmonella is also present in raw chicken and fish. Improper kitchen cleanliness practices can allow bacteria to spread to other foods.
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Onset and Symptoms
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Between 12 and 72 hours after infection, the sufferer will begin to feel symptoms. They include diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, fatigue and fever. Mild cases may sometimes be mistaken for the stomach flu.
Diagnosis and Treatment
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Salmonella is most often diagnosed with a stool sample. Blood samples may be taken, but only certain strains of salmonella will show up on a blood test. Once diagnosed, antibiotics are prescribed and taken as soon as possible. Left untreated, the bacteria may spread to other parts of the body, and rarely, hospitalization may be required.
Prognosis
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Most people will be able to fight the infection and will feel better in four to seven days, even without treatment. However, treatment is required for the infection to fully leave the body. Children, the elderly and persons with compromised immune systems may develop more serious illnesses requiring hospitalization. In some cases, salmonella can even cause death.
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