What is Salmonella?
Salmonella is a type of bacteria that causes foodborne illness, commonly known as salmonella poisoning. In Australia, it is a leading cause of gastrointestinal infections, often linked to contaminated food, poor hygiene, and cross-contamination in high-risk settings such as hospitality, aged care, and childcare.
The two main species affecting humans are Salmonella enterica (especially S. Typhimurium and S. Enteritidis) and Salmonella bongori. These bacteria live in the intestines of animals and can contaminate meat, eggs, dairy, and even fruits and vegetables if food safety practices are not followed.
How Do You Get Salmonella?
Common Transmission Pathways
- Eating undercooked chicken, beef, or pork
- Consuming raw or undercooked eggs
- Eating unwashed fruits or vegetables
- Drinking contaminated water
- Using shared or unclean kitchen surfaces (cross-contamination)
- Poor hand hygiene after handling animals or using the toilet
Who is Most at Risk?
Certain groups are more vulnerable to serious illness:
- Young children and teenagers
- Adults over 65
- Pregnant people
- Individuals with weakened immune systems
- Food handlers and care workers in aged care or childcare
Symptoms of Salmonella Poisoning
Onset and Duration
Symptoms usually begin 6 to 72 hours after exposure, peaking around 12–36 hours. Most people recover within 4 to 7 days.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
- Diarrhoea (watery and frequent)
- Abdominal pain or cramps
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
Systemic Symptoms
- Fever and chills
- Headache and body aches
- Fatigue and weakness
Signs of Dehydration
- Dry mouth and tongue
- Dizziness or fainting
- Reduced urination or dark-coloured urine
- Fast heart rate
- Sunken eyes
What Happens in the Body?
Salmonella bacteria invade the intestinal lining, causing inflammation, fluid loss, and diarrhoea. The body eliminates the bacteria through the stool, often over several days.
Illness Timeline:
| Days | Stage |
| 1–3 | Acute symptoms (diarrhoea, vomiting, fatigue) |
| 4–7 | Gradual improvement |
| 7–10 | Recovery of energy, return to normal diet |
| 10+ | Resume work if symptom-free for 48 hours |
Complications of Salmonella
While most cases are mild, some can lead to serious outcomes.
Severe Outcomes
- Sepsis (bacteria enter the bloodstream)
- Meningitis
- Organ abscesses
- Joint or bone infections
Hospitalisation Triggers
- High fever (above 38.5°C)
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea
- Blood in stools
- Dehydration
- Symptoms lasting more than 7 days
Long-Term Effects
- Reactive arthritis (joint pain lasting weeks or months)
- Post-infection irritable bowel symptoms
Diagnosis in Australia
Medical Evaluation
A GP may ask about:
- Recent food intake (e.g., raw eggs, meat)
- Travel or outbreak exposure
- Contact with infected individuals
Laboratory Testing
- Stool sample testing confirms diagnosis
- Samples help identify the strain and determine if antibiotics are needed
Mandatory Reporting
Salmonella is a notifiable disease in Australia. Confirmed cases must be reported to state health departments such as NSW Health or WA Health to track outbreaks.
What to Do if You Suspect Salmonella
Home Care Tips
- Hydrate: Drink water, electrolyte drinks, or oral rehydration solutions
- Eat bland foods: Toast, rice, bananas, or broth
- Rest: Avoid strenuous activities
- Isolate: Avoid preparing food for others
- Maintain hygiene: Use separate utensils and clean surfaces regularly
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Diarrhoea lasting more than 5 days
- Blood in stools
- High fever (38.5°C or more)
- Severe abdominal pain
- Symptoms while pregnant or immunocompromised
- Signs of dehydration
Returning to Work or School
According to Safe Work Australia, you must stay home for at least 48 hours after symptoms resolve, especially if you work in food service, aged care, or childcare.
Treatment Options
Most Cases – No Antibiotics
- Hydration is the priority
- Paracetamol can relieve pain or fever
- Avoid anti-diarrhoeal medication unless advised by a GP
When Antibiotics Are Used
- For high-risk patients (e.g., babies, the elderly, and immunocompromised)
- Bloodstream infections
- Severe or relapsing symptoms
Preventing Salmonella in Everyday Life
Food Safety Practices
- Cook meat, poultry, and eggs thoroughly
- Avoid raw eggs in homemade mayonnaise or desserts
- Use separate chopping boards for raw meat and vegetables
- Refrigerate food promptly
Learn more about safe handling through a certified food handling course.
Personal Hygiene Habits
- Wash hands before preparing food and after using the toilet
- Sanitise utensils and kitchen surfaces
- Avoid preparing food when unwell
Tips for Vulnerable Groups
- Pregnant people: Avoid raw eggs, soft cheeses, and deli meats
- Immunocompromised individuals: Avoid raw sprouts and undercooked meat
- Aged care and childcare workers: Follow strict infection control protocols
Key Takeaways
- Salmonella is a major cause of foodborne illness in Australia.
- Symptoms begin 6–72 hours after exposure and last up to a week.
- Most people recover with hydration and rest, but complications can occur.
- Diagnosis is confirmed by stool tests and is reportable to health authorities.
- Prevention starts with safe food handling and good hygiene.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have salmonella or something else?
A stool test confirms salmonella. Common symptoms include diarrhoea, cramps, and fever.
Can I die from salmonella?
It is rare but possible, particularly in vulnerable individuals.
Do I need antibiotics?
Only for severe or high-risk cases.
Is salmonella contagious?
Yes. It spreads through poor hygiene or contaminated surfaces. Handwashing is essential.
Can I work with salmonella?
No. Stay home until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.
What foods carry salmonella in Australia?
Raw or undercooked chicken, eggs, unwashed produce, sprouts, and dairy.
Can it cause long-term issues?
Yes. Some people develop joint pain or irritable bowel symptoms after infection.
What should I eat if infected?
Stick to bland foods such as rice, toast, and bananas, and stay hydrated.
