Salmonella food poisoning is a type of bacteria often found in undercooked meat, poultry or raw eggs.  It is also found in pet turtles and is the cause of little turtles being banned from sale in many states.  It has also been known to spread from person to person.

Symptoms

Symptoms of salmonella poisoning include stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, headache, fever, sweats and chills and lack of appetite.  Salmonella poisoning symptoms can be severe and may also return if the bacteria is not treated.  The most danger lies in dehydration from losing fluids and salts.  Be sure to replenish your electrolytes with Pedialyte, Gatorade,  or sea salt water.  At most risk are infants, children and older adults over 60 years old.

Call your doctor if your symptoms last longer than a couple days.  Be sure to save a diarrhea sample so they can test it.  If you are diagnosed with salmonella poisoning, you will most likely be given an antibiotic and be advised to drink plenty of fluids.  Eat a bland diet consisting of rice, applesauce, bananas and toast.

If you have signs of dark urine, dry mouth, no tears in your eyes and fatigue, these are signs of dehydration.  Drink plenty of fluids.Call your doctor is you can’t keep anything down or if you have a high  temperature, jaundice or worsening diarrhea.

Prevention

The best care for salmonella poisoning is preventative.  Always use a separate cutting board for meats and poultry.  Wash sink, utensils and wash hands thoroughly after handling any meats and poultry.