Blog

Food Poisoning Quick Facts -- Salmonella

Salmonella is a group of bacteria that live in the intestinal tracts of human beings and animals, including birds.  Salmonella is usually transmitted to people by eating foods contaminated with animal feces.  Salmonella-contaminated foods usually look and smell normal.  The most common foods contaminated with salmonella are of animal origin (e.g., beef, poultry, milk, or eggs), but any food, including vegetables, may become contaminated.

The primary symptoms of salmonella food poisoning are diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps.  These symptoms develop 12 to 72 hours after contamination and typically last 4 to 7 days.  Some cases are much more serious and lengthy hospitalization may be required.  If the salmonella gets into the blood stream, death can result.

A small number of persons with salmonella develop Reiter's syndrome.  This syndrome leads to pain in the joints, irritation of the eyes, and painful urination.  It can last for months or years.  Reiter's syndrome can lead to chronic arthritis which is difficult to treat.

If you suspect that you or someone you love has salmonella food poisoning, you should see a doctor immediately.

If you have been diagnosed with salmonella food poisoning and you would like to find out whether you have a food poisoning legal case, call us at 412-471-4300 or toll free at 800-350-6161, or email us.  At Berger & Lagnese, our attorneys specialize in food poisoning cases and work on cases in Pittsburgh, Greensburg, Uniontown, Beaver, Erie, Washington, and all courts in Western Pennsylvania.  Our team of lawyers will help you find out how you became infected with salmonella and will help you determine whether you have a food poisoning case.