Foods

People most often get a Salmonella infection by eating foods contaminated with animal feces. It is important to remember that contaminated foods can look and smell normal. Any food, including vegetables, may be contaminated, but foods that are most commonly contaminated with Salmonella are:

  • Beef
  • Poultry
  • Milk
  • Eggs

Animals

Salmonella may also be found in the feces of animals including:

  • Pets and livestock
  • Chicks and young birds, pet birds such as parakeets
  • Reptiles such as turtles, lizards and snakes
  • Rodents such as mice, hamsters and guinea pigs
  • Salmonella can also be found in some pet foods and pet treats.

People

  • Salmonella germs can be spread by an infected person who did not wash their hands with soap after using the bathroom.
  • Salmonella can also be spread from person-to-person in places like childcare facilities, residential living facilities such as nursing homes or group homes, and through certain types fo seual contact (e.g., oral-anal contact).

How can  avoid Salmonella infection?

  • Thorough cooking of food including poultry, ground beef and eggs, kills Salmonella. Do not eat or drink foods containing raw eggs or raw (unpasteurized) milk.
  • Keep uncooked meats separate from produce and cooked and ready-to-eat foods.
  • Wash hands, kitchen surfaces and utensils with soap and water immediately after they have been in contact with raw meat or poultry.
  • Always wash your hands immediately after handling a reptile or bird, even if the animal is healthy.
  • Always wash your hands with soap and water after using the bathroom or changing diapers.
  • In the childcare setting, dispose of stool and soiled diapers in a sanitary manner.

When to call your doctor

Most people don't need to seek medical attention for a salmonella infection because it clears up on its own within a few days. However, in cases involving infants, young children, the elderly or people with impaired immune systems, call your doctor if symptoms last more than a few days.

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