Slideshow: Salmonella Pictures

Color-enhanced and magnified view of salmonella invading human cells.

Woman with abdominal pain.

What Is Salmonella?

Salmonella are bacteria that can live in the intestinal tracts of humans and other animals. There are many different kinds of these bacteria; the most common types in the U.S. are Salmonella typhimurium and Salmonella enteritidis. Any raw food of animal origin and some fruits and vegetables may carry salmonella bacteria, as can non-food sources. Learn more about the causes, symptoms and treatments of salmonellosis -- a type of food poisoning caused by the salmonella bacterium.

Food Sources of Salmonella

Any raw food of animal origin -- such as meat, poultry, milk and dairy products, eggs, and seafood -- and some fruits and vegetables may carry salmonella bacteria. People should avoid eating raw or undercooked meat, poultry or eggs, along with unpasteurized dairy products. The list also includes homemade foods made with raw eggs, such as mayonnaise, cookie dough, and ice cream.

Can Cooking or Washing Help?

Thorough cooking can kill salmonella. While it's always a good idea to rinse fruits and vegetables, it may not get rid of salmonella, particularly during an outbreak -- it's best just to throw any suspect produce away. Further, when health officials warn people not to eat potentially contaminated food during an outbreak, that means you shouldn't eat that food, cooked or not

Food Safety Tips

The FDA recommends these practices for all fruits and vegetables to prevent food poisoning:

Wash hands with soap and warm water before and after handling them.
Wash produce thoroughly under running water, not in a tub or sink.
Use a clean cutting board and utensils. Don't let produce come into contact with other raw foods or surfaces they have touched.

Non-Food Sources of Salmonella

Pets may carry salmonella bacteria in their intestines, so their feces are a potential concern. Certain pets, such as turtles, snakes and other reptiles, and chicks and other birds are more likely to carry it. But always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water after coming into contact with any pet or their droppings.

Salmonella Symptoms and Treatments

Symptoms of salmonellosis include abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and fever that develop 12 to 72 hours after infection. Most people recover in four to seven days and don't require treatment other than drinking plenty of fluids. People with severe diarrhea may require rehydration with intravenous fluids. Antibiotics are usually not used unless the salmonella infection has spread beyond the intestines. Serious -- and potentially fatal -- cases are more likely in young children, frail or elderly people, and people with weak immune systems.