Salmonella Flashcards
T/F: Fever is associated with salmonella
T
Salmonella has a [quick/slow] onset
Quick onset
T/F: Salmonella should always be treated with antibiotics
F; salmonella is usually self limiting
What organism is responsible for salmonella?
Bacteria; usually enteritica serotypes, including S. typhi
What are the defining characteristics (symptoms) of salmonella’s presentation in a patient?
- acute onset of headache
- abdominal pain
- diarrhea
- occasional N & V
How is a patient usually exposed to salmonella?
Contaminated food of animal origin
What are the common reservoirs of salmonella?
Domestic and wild animals including:
- poultry
- swine
- chicks (think: chicks from Easter)
- dogs
- cats
- turtles (!!)
- iguanas (reptile petting zoos, etc.)
What are the possible complications of salmonella?
Dehydration, septicemia or establish a localized infection such as pericarditis, pneumonia, pyelonephritis, etc.
In what population(s) should healthcare providers be especially concerned for severe dehydration and mortality as a result from salmonella infection?
Infants
Elderly
Immunosuppressed
What form(s) of transmission is associated with salmonella infections?
- Ingestion of contaminated food products
- Human to animal contact
- Human to human contact (fecal/oral)
What antibiotics are recommended in the treatment of salmonella, when necessary?
Ciprofloxacin, TMP-SMX (Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim; “Bactrim”), and Ceftriaxone
What are reasonable methods of preventing salmonella infection?
Safe food handling
Personal hygiene
Public education about pets
