Salmonella

Salmonella is the name of a group of bacteria (over 2,500) responsible for causing much of the food poisoning in the world. It is usually found in raw poultry, eggs, beef, and sometimes on unwashed fruit and vegetables. The salmonella bacteria attacks the stomach and intestines. In more serious cases, the bacteria may enter the lymph tracts, which carry water and protein to the blood, and the blood itself.

Symptoms include fever, diarrhea, abdominal cramps and headache. Symptoms usually last 4 - 7 days. Most people get better without treatment. It can be more serious in the elderly, infants and people with chronic conditions. If Salmonella gets into the bloodstream, it can be serious, or even life-threatening. The usual treatment is antibiotics.