Salmonella
Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause food poisoning. Here’s some advice to prevent and manage exposure to salmonella:
Prevention:
- Cook Food Thoroughly:
- Ensure poultry, meat, and eggs are fully cooked. Use a food thermometer to check internal temperatures (e.g., cook poultry to 75°C).
- Avoid eating raw or undercooked eggs, meat, or poultry.
- Avoid Cross-Contamination:
- Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat and other foods.
- Wash hands, utensils, and surfaces with soap and hot water after handling raw meat or eggs.
- Wash Produce:
- Rinse fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water, even if you plan to peel them.
- Refrigerate Food Properly:
- Store perishable foods at or below 4°C. Avoid leaving cooked food out for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour in hot weather).
- Choose Pasteurized Products:
- Use pasteurized eggs, milk, and juices, as the pasteurization process kills harmful bacteria.
- Practice Good Hand Hygiene:
- Wash hands with soap and water before preparing food, eating, and after handling raw foods or using the bathroom.
Symptoms of Salmonella Poisoning:
- Diarrhoea, often with mucus or blood
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever
- Headache
What to Do if You Get Sick:
- Stay Hydrated:
- Diarrhoea and vomiting can lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of water, and oral rehydration solutions if needed.
- Rest:
- Give your body time to recover by resting. Avoid strenuous activity.
- Avoid Certain Foods:
- Stick to bland, easy-to-digest foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast until symptoms improve.
- When to Seek Medical Attention:
- If symptoms are severe, such as prolonged vomiting, high fever, dehydration, or diarrhoea lasting more than 3 days, see a doctor or call 111.
- Young children, elderly adults, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for complications.
Antibiotic Use:
- Most cases of salmonella resolve on their own without the need for antibiotics, but severe cases or those in vulnerable populations may require them. Always follow medical advice.
By following good food safety practices and recognizing the symptoms, you can reduce the risk of infection and manage symptoms effectively if exposed.
For more information on Salmonella, please click on the link below:
