Infections due to any of the salmonella group of bacteria. One type of salmonella causes typhoid fever; others commonly result in bacterial food poisoning, most often through contamination of hens’ eggs or chicken. Infants, the elderly, and people who are debilitated are most susceptible. Symptoms of salmonella food poisoning usually develop suddenly 12–24 hours after infection and include headache, nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and sometimes fever. The symptoms usually last for only 2 or 3 days, but, in severe cases, dehydration or septicaemia may develop. Treatment is by rehydration therapy. In severe cases, fluid replacement by intravenous infusion may be needed.
Salmonella infections |
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