Doctor's Notes on Salmonella
Salmonella are a group of bacteria that cause diseases in humans (for example, salmonellosis, gastroenteritis, typhoid fever, and paratyphoid fever), animals, and birds. Salmonella are one of the major causes of gastroenteritis in the world and are considered to be the most common cause of food-borne disease (food poisoning) in the U.S.
Symptoms of Salmonella infection usually begin about 12-72 hours after ingestion of the bacteria and include
Fever may occur but usually lasts only one to three days, and all symptoms usually resolve in about three to seven days. Some people infected may develop a slow heartbeat or slightly raised red or rose-colored spots (rose spots) on the chest and abdomen. Symptoms of Salmonella infection depend on the overall health of the infected person and the particular strain infecting the patient.
What is the treatment for Salmonella?
Treatment for Salmonella ideally is done with an antibiotic to which the bacterial strain is susceptible. However, susceptibility determinations may take some time to discover. So, the initial antibiotics recommended by many doctors are:
- Fluoroquinolones (adults)
- Azithromycin (children)
- Ceftriaxone (alternative antibiotic for children and adults)
Although some patients may resolve the infection without antibiotics, others may require IV antibiotics, IV fluids and hospitalization.
Food Portion Distortion : Correct Serving Size Quiz
QuestionA bagel 20 years ago was 3 inches in diameter and had 140 calories. How many calories do you think are in today's bagel?
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REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.