Salmonellosis is a bacterial infection that usually affects the intestines and occasionally the bloodstream. It is one of the more common causes of gastroenteritis with several hundred cases occurring in Missouri each year. Most cases occur in the summer months and are seen as single cases, clusters or outbreaks.
Any person can get salmonellosis.
The elderly, infants and persons with impaired immune systems are at increased risk for serious illness. Salmonella bacteria are spread by eating or drinking contaminated food or water or by contact with infected people or animals. People exposed to the salmonella bacteria may have diarrhea, cramping, nausea, vomiting and headache. Some people may have very mild or no symptoms. Some infections can be quite serious, especially in the very young or elderly.