Most persons infected with Salmonella develop diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps 12 to 72 hours after infection. The illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days, and most persons recover without treatment. However, in some persons the diarrhea may be so severe that the patient needs to be hospitalized. In these patients, the Salmonella infection may spread from the intestines to the blood stream, and then to other body sites and can cause death unless the person is treated promptly with antibiotics. The elderly, infants, and those with impaired immune systems are more likely to have a severe illness.
Dehydration is the biggest threat from diarrheal diseases in children.
To prevent dehydration, your child may require special fluids. The best fluid to give children with diarrhea is an oral rehydration solution such as Ceralyte, Pedialyte or Oralyte. These solutions can be purchased in nearly all drug stores and grocery stores. Parents should keep 2 bottles or packages of these solutions on hand in case your child gets diarrhea. Follow the instructions on the solution according to your child s age.