Salmonella gastroenteritis

Salmonella gastroenteritis is a common illness in the general community, but can be particularly serious in infants, the elderly and people with immune suppression. Outbreaks can be devastating in aged care facilities where people are in close contact and may have low resistance. Strict hygiene and prompt medical intervention are essential in containing such outbreaks.

Symptoms of gastroenteritis may include fever, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, headache, stomach cramps, nausea and vomiting. Dehydration can be a serious complication. It can be prevented by giving plenty of fluids such as diluted juice or cordial or oral rehydration solution from a pharmacy.

Salmonella infection usually results from ingestion of the bacteria from contaminated food, water or hands. Symptoms appear 6 - 72 hours (usually within 12 - 36 hours) after infection.

Raw or undercooked eggs, milk, meat or poultry are particularly high risk foods. Fruit and vegetables may also be contaminated, especially if manure has been used as fertiliser. People may become infected if they transfer animal faeces containing Salmonella bacteria from their hands to their mouths. Person-to-person spread may occur when hands, objects or food become contaminated with faeces from people who are infected (the bacteria are then taken in by mouth).

Preventing spread

• Exclude infected people from child care, preschool, school and work until diarrhoea has ceased.

• Cook meat thoroughly, until the juices run clear.

• Do not purchase dirty or cracked eggs.

• Use strict food handling procedures when preparing dishes containing raw or incompletely cooked eggs, such as home made icecream or mayonnaise.

• Do not consume unpasteurised milk.

• Follow good food handling procedures.

• Follow good hand washing and keeping areas clean procedures.

• Recognise the risk of Salmonella infections in pets. Chickens, ducklings, tropical freshwater fish and turtles are particularly risky for small children.

• Wash hands after handling raw meat and especially chicken.

• Always wash fruit (including melons) and vegetables before eating. If home grown, wash them before bringing them into the house.

• Infected people who no longer have symptoms should take special care with hand washing if they are involved in food preparation or in caring for patients in hospital, the elderly, or children.

For more information about everyday hygiene and how to prevent gastro go to ...

http://www.dh.sa.gov.au/pehs/youve-got-what.htm