Salmonella

Salmonella is a type of bacteria which is commonly spread by eating food contaminated with it, which can cause a type of food poisoning called salmonellosis. Those more likely to become ill with salmonellosis are:

• children aged 4 years and under
• older people (typically 65 and over)
• people who are pregnant 
• those with weakened immune systems. People with weakened immune systems include those with underlying health conditions (e.g. cancer or diabetes) and those receiving certain medical treatments or medications (e.g. chemotherapy and immunosuppressants).

Salmonella is the second most common cause of bacterial food poisoning in Scotland. There are approximately 800 cases reported each year. 

Most cases of salmonellosis happen by eating contaminated food or water. You can also become ill after being in contact with another person or animal with the infection.

Common symptoms of salmonella poisoning include:

• diarrhoea
• stomach cramps
• nausea
• fever
• vomiting

Symptoms can start between 12 and 72 hours after becoming infected and usually last 4-7 days. Most illnesses clear up without treatment. People with severe or prolonged symptoms should speak to a doctor.

Those who have a greater risk of becoming severely ill with salmonellosis are:

• children aged 4 years and under
• people aged 65 and over
• people who are pregnant
• those with weakened immune systems

Salmonella bacteria typically live in the intestines of animals (e.g. chicken, cattle, pig, reptiles) and humans and are shed through their faeces. 

Infection is mainly caused by:

• eating contaminated food such as pork and poultry meat that hasn’t been cooked properly
• eating foods that have become cross-contaminated by poor food hygiene
• drinking contaminated water
• coming into contact with infected animals

Foods commonly associated with salmonellosis include:

• raw meat
• poultry
• raw eggs
• unpasteurised dairy products

Salmonella bacteria can be spread during the slaughter and processing of meat. Other foods like fresh produce (i.e. salads, fruit and vegetables) can become contaminated through contact with animal and human faeces and contaminated water. 

Salmonella bacteria can be spread from pets such as reptiles, cats and dogs to people, including through the handling of raw pet food.