What should you know about salmonella food poisoning?

Salmonella is usually acquired by swallowing contaminated food or water. Symptoms can begin after exposure and may range from mild to severe. The illness may be considered [Food Poisoning](/conditions/food-poisoning/), but the same symptoms can have other causes, so a clinician may use the history, examination and sometimes a stool test to guide care.

Common features include [Abdominal Pain](/symptoms/abdominal-pain/), [Diarrhoea](/symptoms/diarrhoea/), [Fever](/symptoms/fever/), [Nausea](/symptoms/nausea/) and [Vomiting](/symptoms/vomiting/). The main immediate risk is losing more water and salts than you can replace.

Sip an oral rehydration drink regularly, using small amounts if nausea is present. [Oral Rehydration Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/oral-rehydration-therapy/) helps replace fluid and electrolytes. Rest, eat simple foods as tolerated and wash hands with soap after using the toilet. Do not prepare food for other people while you have diarrhoea. Antibiotics are not suitable for every case; a clinician decides after considering severity and individual risk.

Arrange urgent assessment for blood in stool, severe or persistent abdominal pain, confusion, fainting, repeated vomiting, inability to drink, or signs of dehydration such as very little urine and marked dizziness. Seek advice sooner for a baby, older adult, pregnancy or a weakened immune system. If drinking cannot keep up with losses, [IV Fluid Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/iv-fluid-therapy/) can restore fluids under supervision.

Ask whether your symptoms need stool testing, which drinks and foods are suitable, whether any medicine should be avoided, and how long you should stay away from food handling or close contact. Tell the clinician about travel, shared meals, other sick people and your regular medicines.