Salmonellosis Essay

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Etiology/Causative Agents
Salmonellosis is an illness caused by the zoonotic bacteria, Salmonella typhimurium or Salmonella enteritidis. Salmonella is of the Enterobacteriaceae gram-negative family (CDC). Salmonellosis is commonly thought of as an intense stomach bug, or food poisoning. This illness is most commonly foodborne, and occurs upon the digestion of animal feces that has contaminated the source (Minnesota Department of Health). When food is not properly cooked to remove all bacteria, or if food is contaminated after preparation, this is when the person is most likely to become infected. Due to the portal of entry being through ingestion of the bacteria, it takes form primarily in the stomach. It has a special outer membrane made up of lipopolysaccharides that allows it to coexist with the acidic digestive environment (Microbewiki). It is also possible to be infected by an animal host. Coming in contact with a contaminated …show more content…

Certain foods are more likely to be infected than others. It is more typical for infected foods to be from animals, or around animals that could contaminate it. Raw meats, poultry, seafood, eggs and fruits and vegetables are the most commonly infected. Bacteria can be avoided if proper cooking precautions are taken. Things like rinsing foods, and cooking them thoroughly can help to prevent food poisoning. Pets can also carry the bacteria. It can be in their fecal matter, or shells of pet turtles. One of the main reasons anyone working in the food industry is required to be out of work if they are experiencing diarrhea is to reduce the chance of transmitting Salmonella. Any feces transferred to food, and consumed will cause food poisoning. This is also why it is so important for everyone to stay on top of personal hygiene and regular hand washing (Minnesota Department of Health). After consumption, the incubation period typically begins to show symptoms within the first three

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