What is Salmonella?

April 30, 2024

The United States has reportedly refused almost a third of shipments from MDH since October 2023 due to salmonella contamination.

About Salmonella:

  • It is a group of bacteria that can cause gastrointestinal illness and fever called salmonellosis. It naturally lives in animals' intestines and can be found in their feces.
  • The bacteria then spread to humans if they come in contact with salmonella-infected animals or items in their environment.
  • It is a ubiquitous and hardy bacteria that can survive several weeks in a dry environment and several months in water.
  • Risks associated with Salmonella:
    • People infected with Salmonella might have diarrhea, fever, and stomach Some people—especially children younger than 5 years old, adults 65 years and older.
    • People with weakened immune systems—may experience more severe illness that requires medical treatment or hospitalization.