Under normal circumstances, the salmonella bacteria are naturally present in the intestinal tract of humans and animals. The bacteria are passed out along with the feces, when these feces come in contact with meat, fruits, vegetables and water, and the same is ingested, it can result in salmonella. (See Reference 1) Therefore, salmonella is contagious.

Practically any type of food can get contaminated with salmonella bacteria provided the food comes in contact with feces containing the bacteria. It has been seen that most commonly foods like raw milk, beef, poultry and eggs get contaminated with the bacteria. But, according to reports from the CDC, even vegetables like tomatoes can be tainted. (See Reference 1)

Even pets carry the bacteria in their gut. The feces produced by pets, in particular reptiles like snakes, lizards and turtles, can have presence of salmonella. A pet can transmit the bacteria via its feces to its owners. This is more likely when the pet is suffering from diarrhea. (See Reference 1)

Salmonella transference also occurs from one person to another, or from an infected person to a food item. This transmission occurs due to poor hygiene and food handling practices. After using the bathroom, it is necessary to wash hands with soap, especially if the person is going to be handling or touching food later on. (See Reference 1) The bacteria adhere to the hands and can contaminate foods items when they are touched. Anyone eating the contaminated is at a risk of developing salmonellosis. Even inserting fingers into the mouth after using the bathroom or touching contaminated food items can cause the bacteria to enter into your body. (See Reference 1)

A person who is infected with the salmonella bacteria can be a source of infection for a few days or even for few months. It has been seen that those who are treated with antibiotics tend to be carriers for a longer period of time. The same is also true for young kids. (See Reference 2) The infected person can return to normal life once the diarrhea bouts have ceased. However, if a person is working with food, healthcare or children in day care, he or she would first have to get written authorization from the local health department before resuming work. (See Reference 2)

With a little care, the transmission of salmonella can be prevented. When shopping for meats and poultry, ensure that they are wrapped in a separate bag to prevent the juices from dripping onto other foods, vegetables and fruits that you may have purchased. They should also be stored separately to prevent cross-contamination. (See Reference 2) Kitchen surfaces and cutting boards should be washed right after use when preparing meats, poultry, pork, seafood or fish. Also, never use an unwashed plate for cooked foods that was earlier used to hold raw meat. (See Reference 2) Refrain from consuming meats that are raw or half cooked. (See Reference 2)

As mentioned earlier, eggs can also get contaminated with salmonella and hence, consuming raw eggs or foods having raw eggs should be avoided. Even sauces, salad dressings, eggnog, frosting and cookie dough contain raw eggs. Consumption of these items should be avoided to prevent salmonella infection. (See Reference 2)

After playing with household pets, wash hands well. The same is also true when emptying out the cat litter. Teach kids to wash their hands after playing with pets and after using the bathroom. (See Reference 2)

Before consuming raw fruits and vegetables, ensure that they are washed thoroughly under running tap water. (See Reference 2) While the fruits and vegetables may lose some nutrients when they are washed, it is better than getting a bout of diarrhea and abdominal cramps.

Following the aforementioned tips, you can prevent salmonella from getting transmitted among your family members.

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