Every year, around 40,000 Americans are diagnosed with salmonella poisoning – most in the summer months. And these are just the reported cases; there are plenty more. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates the actual number of people infected is at least 30 times greater. Most are young children, older adults, and those with compromised immune systems.
Symptoms typically show up 12 to 72 hours after infection, last 4 to 7 days, and most persons recover without treatment. The most common symptoms are: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, headache, muscle pains and blood in the stool. So what’s the good news? There are simple ways to avoid getting salmonella.
• Poultry, ground beef, and eggs should be cooked completely before eating. This includes foods served in restaurants. If any are under-cooked, return them to your waiter until they are safely prepared.
• Nix food or drinks containing raw eggs, or raw unpasteurized milk. Common dishes that often contain raw eggs include the homemade versions of hollandaise sauce, Caesar and other salad dressings, tiramisu, ice cream, mayonnaise, cookie dough, and frostings.
• Wash your hands, kitchen work surfaces, and utensils with soap and water immediately after they have been in contact with raw meat or poultry. And wash produce completely before consuming. There are special brushes or wipes you can use. Peel and discard outer leaves or rinds of fruits and vegetables.
