Salmonella
Salmonella: An Insidious Foodborne Pathogen
Description
Salmonella is a genus of Gram-negative bacteria that commonly reside in the intestinal tract of animals, including poultry, cattle, pigs, and reptiles. It is a leading cause of foodborne illness in humans. Salmonella bacteria are typically rod-shaped or oval and possess flagella that enable them to swim. They can survive in a wide range of temperatures and pH conditions, making them highly adaptable to various environments.
Associated Diseases
Salmonella infection in humans, known as salmonellosis, is typically transmitted through the consumption of contaminated food or water. Common symptoms of salmonellosis include:
- Diarrhea (sometimes bloody)
- Abdominal cramps
- Fever
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Fatigue
In severe cases, salmonellosis can lead to dehydration, sepsis, and organ failure. It can also cause reactive arthritis, a painful inflammatory condition of the joints.
Did you Know ?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Salmonella causes an estimated 1.35 million infections, 26,500 hospitalizations, and 420 deaths in the United States each year.
