CDC estimates Salmonella bacteria cause about 1.35 million infections, 26,500 hospitalizations, and 420 deaths in the United States every year. Food is the source for most of these illnesses.
- Most people who get ill from Salmonella have diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps.
- Symptoms usually begin 6 hours to 6 days after infection and last 4 to 7 days.
- Most people recover without specific treatment and should not take antibiotics. Antibiotics are typically used only to treat people who have severe illness or who are at risk for it.
- Some people’s illness may be so severe that they need to be hospitalized.
Symptoms
Most people with a Salmonella infection experience:
- Diarrhea (that can be bloody)
- Fever
- Stomach cramps
Some people may also have nausea, vomiting, or a headache.
Symptoms usually start within 6 hours–6 days after infection and last 4–7 days.
Should I call the doctor?
Call the doctor if you have:
- Diarrhea and a fever higher than 102°F
- Diarrhea for more than 3 days that is not improving
- Bloody stools
- Prolonged vomiting that prevents you from keeping liquids down
- Signs of dehydration, such as:
- Making very little urine
- Dry mouth and throat
- Dizziness when standing up
Diagnosis and Treatment
Salmonella infection is diagnosed when a laboratory test detects Salmonella bacteria in a person’s poop (stool), body tissue, or fluids.
Most people recover without specific treatment. Antibiotics are typically used only to treat people with severe illness. Patients should drink extra fluids as long as diarrhea lasts. In some cases, diarrhea may be so severe that the person needs to be hospitalized.
In rare cases, infection may spread from the intestines to the bloodstream, and then to other parts of the body. In these people, Salmonella can cause death unless the person is treated promptly with antibiotics.
Reports of Active Salmonella Outbreak Investigations
Outbreak Investigations Linked to Food
- Peanut Butter – Salmonella Senftenberg
Outbreak Investigations Linked to Animals
- Backyard Poultry – Salmonella Infections
Other Outbreaks
- No outbreaks