Health Tip: Avoiding Salmonellosis

ByABC News
August 6, 2009, 2:18 PM

Aug. 7 -- (HealthDay News) - Salmonellosis is caused by eating foods contaminated with salmonella bacteria. Symptoms usually include severe diarrhea and abdominal cramps.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers this additional information about salmonellosis:

  • Salmonellosis can come from many foods, including vegetables. But salmonella contamination is most common in animal products such as eggs, milk, poultry and beef.
  • Salmonella can also contaminate pet feces, and can be transmitted to people who don't wash their hands after handling pets or pet feces.
  • Cooking food thoroughly usually prevents salmonellosis.
  • Don't allow uncooked meat to come in contact with other foods that already may be cooked.
  • Wash hands and utensils frequently before, during and after preparing food.