Salmonella are facultative anaerobic bacteria in the family of Enterobacteriaceae. There are two species of Salmonella, Salmonella enterica and Salmonella bongori that include over 2,600 different serotypes. The majority of the pathogenic serotypes of Salmonella that affect humans are within the species of Salmonella enterica (S. enterica). Worldwide, Salmonella spp. causes an estimated 93.8 million cases of gastroenteritis each year.
The majority of laboratory-confirmed cases in the U.S. were in children under five years of age. Symptoms of salmonellosis based on the two types of infection include: Typhoidal — debilitating, sustained high fever and headache, and Non-typhoidal — enterocolitis, bacteremia, endovascular infections, septic arthritis or osteomyelitis. Sources of infection include eggs, meats, dairy products, shellfish and produce; processed foods and pet foods. Handling of chicks, ducklings, reptiles, kittens and hedgehogs is a source of infection as well. Incubation period is typically between 6-72 hours. Antibiotics for uncomplicated non-typhoidal Salmonella infection are not indicated and may increase the risk of asymptomatic carriage up to one year. Treatment for adults may include Levofloxacin 500 mg daily for 7 days, Ciprofloxacin 500 mg twice daily for 7 days, Azithromycin 500 mg daily for 7 days, or Trimethoprim/ sulfamethoxazole twice daily for 7 days. Relapsing or immunocompromised patients require 14 days treatment. Calpurnia aurea; Salivia schimperi; Azadirachta indica (neem) methanol extract; Allium sativa aqueous extract have shown anti-microbial effects in vitro.
Salmonella spp.
Every lab result you’ve ever had, charted and explained.
Healthmatters is a tracker for your lab results. Upload a report from any lab, any country — every marker charted and explained.
Start with my report →
All our content is backed by peer-reviewed studies, academic research, and trusted medical sources. We’re committed to accuracy and transparency — see our editorial policy for details.