How long does salmonella last

Children under 5, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems such as those with cancer or other diseases have a higher risk of getting salmonellosis and are more likely to have severe symptoms. Salmonellosis is uncommon in dogs and cats, but they can be carriers of the bacteria. For example, cats can spread Salmonella through shared litter boxes or when roaming throughout the house, such as on kitchen countertops.

Some ways dogs can spread the bacteria is when they give people kisses or have stool accidents inside the home. Pet waste from both sick and healthy pets can be a source of infection for people. When the disease is seen in an adult dog or cat, the animal typically has another infection or health problem at the same time.

Puppies and kittens are more likely to show signs of disease. Signs of salmonellosis in dogs and cats include:. Salmonellosis is a common cause of diarrhea in adult horses. Horses can become infected with Salmonella by coming into contact with the bacteria in a contaminated environment, eating contaminated feed, or drinking contaminated water.

Horses can also become infected by direct contact with animals that are actively shedding the bacteria in their stool. Animal feed and pet food are recalled for various reasons, including for the presence of Salmonella. Comparative genetics of the inv-spa invasion gene complex of Salmonella enterica. J Bacteriol. Gruenberg W. Overview of salmonellosis.

Merck Veterinary Manual. Accessed Jun 3, Salmonellae interplay with host cells. Nat Rev Microbiol. This happens when food, water, or objects carrying bacteria from poop, either human or animal, come into contact with your mouth. Eating raw or undercooked meat is the most common way Salmonella is spread. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 94 percent of salmonellosis cases result from food.

This includes:. Raw meat can carry fecal bacteria that was present on the animal before it was slaughtered. Eggs from a contaminated bird can also carry Salmonella bacteria. Eating raw eggs in particular increases the risk of Salmonella infection. Unwashed fruits and vegetables can carry fecal bacteria as well. Bacteria can infect fruits and vegetables through fertilizer or contaminated water. Bacteria can also come from the waste of animals close to where the fruits or vegetables were grown.

Salmonellosis is very contagious. Kissing and sexual activities that expose you to fecal bacteria, such as anal sex, can all make you vulnerable to contracting the bacteria, too.

Putting an object in your mouth that was touched by someone with an active infection can also spread salmonellosis. Salmonellosis symptoms usually last for about four to seven days. A person can still transmit the bacteria for several weeks after symptoms fade, and even several months later. The North Dakota Department of Health notes about 1 percent of adults and 5 percent of babies who contract Salmonella still have traces of the bacteria in their stool for a year or longer.

Salmonella bacteria are most commonly found in animal products and can be killed by the heat of cooking. Don't serve raw or undercooked eggs, poultry, or meat. Microwaving is not a reliable way to kill the bacteria. If you're pregnant , be especially careful to avoid undercooked foods. Handle eggs carefully. Because Salmonella bacteria can contaminate even intact and disinfected grade A eggs, cook them well and avoid serving poached or sunny-side up eggs with runny yolks.

Avoid foods that might contain raw ingredients. Caesar salad dressing, the Italian dessert tiramisu, homemade ice cream, chocolate mousse, eggnog, cookie dough, and frostings can contain raw eggs. Unpasteurized milk and juices also can be contaminated with Salmonella. Clean cooking surfaces regularly. Keep uncooked meats away from cooked and ready-to-eat foods. Thoroughly wash your hands, cutting boards, counters, and knives after handling uncooked foods.

Take care with pets. Avoid contact with the feces of family pets — especially reptiles. Wash your hands well after handling an animal and make sure that no reptiles are permitted to come into contact with a baby.

Section Navigation. Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Syndicate. Questions and Answers. Minus Related Pages. What are Salmonella? What illness do people get from Salmonella infection? What are the symptoms of infection?

Most people with Salmonella infection have diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. Salmonella are a diverse group of bacteria. How is Salmonella infection diagnosed? How is infection treated? Antibiotic treatment is recommended for: People with severe illness People with a weakened immune system, such as from HIV infection or chemotherapy treatment Adults older than 50 who have medical problems, such as heart disease Infants children younger than 12 months. Adults age 65 or older Can infection cause long-term health problems?

How do people get infected?