San Antonio Salmonella Attorney

Salmonella is a type of bacteria that causes an infection known as salmonellosis, primarily affecting the intestines. It belongs to the genus Salmonella, which includes a variety of species and serotypes. These bacteria are rod-shaped, Gram-negative, and capable of thriving in both aerobic and anaerobic environments.

Salmonella is commonly transmitted to humans by consuming contaminated food or water. The most frequent sources of infection include raw or undercooked poultry, eggs, unpasteurized milk, and contaminated fruits and vegetables.

Symptoms of Salmonella Poisoning

Symptoms of salmonellosis typically appear 6 hours to 6 days after infection and can include diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps, and vomiting. While most people recover without treatment within 4 to 7 days, severe cases can lead to hospitalization, especially in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. The infection can be diagnosed through stool tests, and treatment focuses on hydration and supportive care, with antibiotics reserved for severe cases.

Common Scenarios Leading to Salmonella Outbreaks

Salmonella outbreaks commonly arise from various scenarios where contamination can occur at multiple points in the food supply chain and through environmental exposure.

Egg and Poultry Products

Consuming raw or lightly cooked eggs can lead to infection, especially if they are contaminated with Salmonella. Improperly cooked chicken or turkey can also be a major source of outbreaks. Cross-contamination during preparation is also common.

Fresh Produce

Outbreaks have been linked to leafy greens like spinach and lettuce, often due to contaminated irrigation water or poor handling practices. Contaminated melons and other fruits have also been implicated in outbreaks, usually due to contact with contaminated water or surfaces during processing.

Processed Foods

Outbreaks can occur from processed foods like peanut butter, pre-packaged sandwiches, and frozen meals if they are made with contaminated ingredients. Unpasteurized milk and cheeses can be sources of Salmonella if the milk comes from infected animals.

Animal Contact

Direct contact with animals carrying Salmonella, particularly at petting zoos or farms, can lead to outbreaks, especially among children. Handling pets like turtles, snakes, and frogs, or cleaning their habitats, can introduce Salmonella to humans.

What to Do if You Suspect Salmonella

If you suspect you have salmonella, it’s crucial to take immediate steps to protect your health and prevent the spread of the infection. Here’s what you should do:

• Seek Medical Attention: Contact your healthcare provider promptly. They can perform tests to confirm the infection and provide appropriate treatment, including hydration and medications to manage symptoms.
• Stay Hydrated: Salmonella can cause severe diarrhea, leading to dehydration. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, oral rehydration solutions, or electrolyte-rich drinks.
• Rest: Ensure you get plenty of rest to help your body fight off the infection.
• Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks: Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and spicy or fatty foods, which can aggravate your symptoms. Stick to bland, easy-to-digest foods.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before handling food. Avoid preparing food for others until your symptoms have fully resolved to prevent the spreading of the infection.
• Report the Illness: Inform your local health department if you suspect your illness is linked to a particular food source. This can help identify and contain outbreaks.
• Document Your Experience: Keep records of your symptoms, medical visits, and any foods you consumed before falling ill. This information can be useful if you need to pursue legal action such as a salmonella lawsuit or report the case to health authorities.

Following these steps can help manage your illness effectively and reduce the risk of spreading salmonella to others.

San Antonio Salmonella Statistics

Salmonella was in the top three highest case counts in Bexar County for 2018, 2019, and 2021. The incidence rate per 100,000 people was 32.9 in 2018, but by 2021, this had decreased to 17.4.

In 2018, 34.7% of Salmonella cases were people aged 25-44, although in 2019 and 2021, children aged 0-14 had over 40% of the reported cases.

During those three years, 1,361 cases of Salmonella were reported in total in Bexar County. In the whole of Texas, 5,888 cases were reported in 2018, 5,575 cases in 2019, and 4,090 cases in 2021.

Get In Touch

Victim of a Salmonella outbreak? Get the justice you need. Contact The Lange Law Firm at (833) 330-3663 or message us online for a free consultation. Our San Antonio salmonella lawyers will diligently investigate your case and pursue the compensation you are entitled to.