Food:
* Undercooked poultry, meat, eggs, and seafood: Salmonella bacteria can live in the intestines of animals, so their meat can be contaminated. Not cooking these foods thoroughly allows the bacteria to survive.
* Unpasteurized milk and dairy products: Raw milk can contain Salmonella, and if dairy products are made from it, they can also be contaminated.
* Raw fruits and vegetables: These can be contaminated through contact with contaminated water or soil, or if they are handled by people with Salmonella.
* Cross-contamination: When raw meats, poultry, eggs, or seafood come into contact with other foods, they can transfer the bacteria. This can happen during preparation if surfaces, utensils, or hands aren't properly cleaned.
Water:
* Contaminated water: Drinking or swimming in water contaminated with Salmonella can lead to infection. This can happen if the water source is polluted with animal waste.
Other ways:
* Contact with infected animals: Contact with infected reptiles, amphibians, or poultry can spread the bacteria.
* Person-to-person contact: Though less common, it's possible to contract salmonellosis through contact with an infected person. This can happen through close contact or sharing utensils.
Prevention:
* Cook food thoroughly: Ensure meat, poultry, eggs, and seafood reach the safe internal temperature.
* Wash hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling food.
* Separate raw and cooked foods: Keep raw meats, poultry, eggs, and seafood separate from cooked food to avoid cross-contamination.
* Clean surfaces and utensils: Wash all surfaces and utensils used for food preparation with hot soapy water.
* Drink pasteurized milk and dairy products: Avoid consuming unpasteurized milk or dairy products.
* Wash fruits and vegetables: Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption.
* Be cautious with pets: Wash your hands after handling reptiles, amphibians, or poultry.
If you experience symptoms of salmonellosis like diarrhea, fever, stomach cramps, or vomiting, consult a healthcare provider for appropriate treatment.