what is salmonella

Salmonella is a common bacterial disease that affects the intestinal tract. It is caused by the Salmonella bacteria, which typically live in the intestines of animals and humans and are shed through feces. The infection is often contracted through contaminated water or food, with symptoms including diarrhea, fever, stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting. Most people recover within a few days to a week without specific treatment, but in some cases, it can cause severe dehydration and life-threatening complications if the infection spreads beyond the intestines. The most common sources of infection are raw or undercooked meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs, as well as unpasteurized milk. Safe food handling habits and proper hand hygiene can help reduce the risk of salmonella infection