About Salmonella
Salmonellosis is an infection caused by a bacterium called Salmonella. Scientists describe Salmonella as a “gram-negative, rod shaped bacilli.” One of the most common foodborne illnesses, it occurs when food contaminated by Salmonella is consumed. Most people infected with Salmonella develop diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps within 12-72 hours after infection.
According to the U. S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are an estimated 1.4 million cases of Salmonella food poisoning in the United States each year, with more than 500 of those cases resulting in death. The elderly, infants, and those with impaired immune systems are more likely to suffer severe illness.
Salmonella live in the intestinal tracts of humans and other animals. The infection is usually transmitted to humans through the consumption of foods or beverages contaminated with animal feces, or by contact with infected animals. Contaminated foods usually appear, taste, and smell normal. Foods most often contaminated by Salmonella are usually of animal origin, such as beef, poultry, fish, milk, or eggs. However, all foods, including fruits and vegetables, may become contaminated. The unwashed hands of an infected food handler may also contaminate food.
Salmonella foodborne illness can also occur as a result of cross-contamination. For example, juices from raw meat or poultry left behind on a cutting board can contaminate fruits or vegetables cut on the same board, if the board is not properly washed before their preparation.
Salmonella may also be found in the feces of some pets, especially those with diarrhea. People can become infected if they do not wash their hands after contact with these feces. Salmonellosis can also occur after handling reptiles, such as turtles, lizards, and snakes, since even healthy reptiles are likely to carry Salmonella. Hands should be washed immediately after handling a reptile, and adults should make sure that children wash their hands after handling a reptile.
If you or a family member has suffered from food poisoning, and you have a question about your legal rights, you can request a free case evaluation from our firm by clicking on free case evaluation. You may also contact us toll free at 1-877-934-6274.
January 2nd, 2007
