Food Poisoning (cont.)
Can Salmonella Infection Cause
Serious Health Problems?
Although most people recover completely (which sometimes can take several months), salmonella infection may cause a condition known as
Reiter's syndrome in a small percentage of people. Symptoms of Reiter's syndrome include
joint pain, eye irritation and pain when urinating. The joint pain of Reiter's syndrome may develop into a chronic arthritis.
Salmonella infection rarely causes death, although it can occur in the very young, very old or among those who have compromised immune systems.
How Is Salmonella Infection Diagnosed and Treated?
If you think you may have been exposed to the infection, see your doctor. By testing a sample of your stool, the bacteria can be identified.
Salmonella infections usually go away in 5-7 days and often do not require treatment unless you become severely dehydrated or the infection spreads outside of the intestines. If treatment is needed, antibiotics are prescribed.
How Can I Prevent Getting Salmonella?
To prevent salmonella infection, avoid eating raw or undercooked meat or poultry products, including eggs. It is also important to avoid "cross-contamination" which can occur if food is being prepared using the same utensils, or on the same surfaces, as those used for raw or undercooked meats or poultry products.
Wash your hands frequently during and after food preparation. Those with a salmonella infection should not be involved in food preparation.
Wash your hands with soap after handling reptiles, birds, or after contact with pet feces. Avoid contact between reptiles (turtles, iguanas, other lizards, and snakes) and infants or people with weakened immune systems.
Next: What Is Shigella »
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