Salmonella Where does it come from how is it transmitted symptoms and the relationship between eggs and infection

Salmonella is one of the most common types of bacterial infections that can be transmitted through contaminated food. It can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms, most commonly digestive problems such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. Salmonella has received increased attention because some infections have been linked to common foods such as eggs and poultry, particularly when they are eaten raw or undercooked. So, what is Salmonella? How does the infection spread? What are its main symptoms, treatment options, and prevention methods? And could eggs be a source of infection? In this article, Dalili Medical provides the most important information to help you understand Salmonella and reduce the risk of infection.

Is There Currently a Salmonella Outbreak in the UK?

Yes. UK health authorities are currently investigating a national outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis infection. The investigation involves the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the Food Standards Agency (FSA), and several other health and regulatory authorities.

Is UK-produced eggs the cause of the outbreak?

There is currently no evidence that eggs produced in the UK are the source of the current outbreak. However, no egg can be guaranteed to be completely free from Salmonella, so proper hygiene, safe handling, and thorough cooking of eggs remain important preventive measures.

Does eating eggs mean you will get Salmonella?

Not necessarily. The fact that eggs are being investigated does not mean that all eggs are contaminated or that eating eggs will inevitably cause Salmonella infection. The risk depends on the source of the eggs, how they are stored and handled, and whether they are properly cooked.

How is Salmonella transmitted to humans?

Salmonella is most commonly transmitted by consuming food or water contaminated with the bacteria. Salmonella can be found in foods such as eggs, poultry, meat, and dairy products. Fruits and vegetables can also become contaminated if they come into contact with animal feces or contaminated or untreated water.

Can you get Salmonella from chicken?

Yes. Raw or undercooked poultry can be a source of Salmonella infection. The bacteria can also spread from raw chicken to other foods or kitchen surfaces through cross-contamination, particularly when the same utensils or surfaces are used without proper cleaning.

Is Salmonella contagious between people?

Yes. Salmonella can spread from an infected person to another person, particularly when hands are not washed properly after using the toilet or caring for someone who is infected. Infection generally occurs when the bacteria reach the mouth through contaminated hands, food, or surfaces.

Can Salmonella be transmitted by animals?

Yes. Some pets, farm animals, and reptiles, such as turtles, can carry Salmonella bacteria and transmit them to humans, even when the animals show no obvious signs of illness. Therefore, it is important to wash your hands thoroughly after touching animals or cleaning their living areas.

What Do We Know About the Salmonella Outbreak in the UK So Far?

According to the latest official update from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), dated August 27, 2026, authorities are continuing to investigate a national outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis.

Current investigations indicate a possible link between some cases and eggs imported into the UK, particularly eggs used by restaurants, cafés, and takeaway food establishments. However, the definitive source of the contamination has not yet been confirmed.

Number of Cases

As of August 25, 2026, UK authorities had identified three linked groups of Salmonella Enteritidis infections.

259 confirmed cases were recorded across the main and linked groups, according to the government update.
One death was associated with the t5.9765 genetic group, while no deaths were reported in the t0.24068 group.
Cases have been reported across different parts of the UK, with the highest number occurring in England.

Official data indicate that the outbreak is not limited to a single genetic group of the bacteria. The UKHSA has identified three genetic groups of Salmonella Enteritidis, all of which remain under investigation to determine the source of the infections and identify any common factors.

Is There Currently a Salmonella Outbreak in the UK?

Is UK-produced eggs the cause of the outbreak?

Does eating eggs mean you will get Salmonella?

How is Salmonella transmitted to humans?

Can you get Salmonella from chicken?

Is Salmonella contagious between people?

Can Salmonella be transmitted by animals?

What Do We Know About the Salmonella Outbreak in the UK So Far?

Number of Cases

As of August 25, 2026, UK authorities had identified three linked groups of Salmonella Enteritidis infections.

259 confirmed cases were recorded across the main and linked groups, according to the government update.
One death was associated with the t5.9765 genetic group, while no deaths were reported in the t0.24068 group.
Cases have been reported across different parts of the UK, with the highest number occurring in England.

What Are the Symptoms of a Salmonella Infection?

Salmonella is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the digestive system. It usually occurs after consuming contaminated food or water. Symptoms may be mild in some people but more severe in others.

Most Common Symptoms

Symptoms usually begin within several hours to a few days after exposure to the infection and may include:

Diarrhea: One of the most common symptoms, which may last for several days.
Abdominal pain and cramps.
Fever, sometimes accompanied by chills.
Nausea.
Vomiting.
Headache.
Loss of appetite.
Fatigue and general weakness.

In some cases, diarrhea may become severe or contain blood, which requires medical evaluation.

Symptoms of Dehydration

Diarrhea and vomiting can cause significant loss of fluids and electrolytes. Signs of dehydration may include:

Dry mouth and lips.
Excessive thirst.
Reduced urination or dark-colored urine.
Dizziness or weakness.
Unusual tiredness or lethargy.

Preventing dehydration is particularly important in young children, older adults, and people with certain chronic conditions or weakened immune systems.

Can Salmonella Be Severe?

Yes. Although most Salmonella infections are self-limiting and improve over time, the infection can become severe in some cases. The bacteria can spread from the intestines into the bloodstream or other parts of the body, potentially causing serious complications that require medical treatment.

The risk of severe infection and complications is higher among young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

How Is Salmonella Diagnosed?

Diagnosing Salmonella infection involves considering the symptoms and medical history, but symptoms alone cannot confirm the infection because they can resemble those of many other bacterial and viral infections. Laboratory testing is therefore used to confirm the presence of Salmonella and identify the bacteria.

1. Stool Testing

A stool test or stool culture is one of the main tests used to confirm Salmonella infection. A stool sample is collected and examined in a laboratory to detect and identify the bacteria.

The results may also help guide antibiotic treatment when antibiotics are medically necessary.

2. Molecular Tests

Molecular tests such as PCR can detect Salmonella genetic material in a stool sample.

These tests can provide results quickly, and some molecular panels can simultaneously detect several pathogens that cause gastrointestinal infections.

3. Blood Tests and Blood Cultures

If the doctor suspects that the infection has spread beyond the digestive system and entered the bloodstream, a blood culture may be performed to detect Salmonella in the blood.

This can be particularly important when there are signs of a severe infection, such as persistent fever, significantly elevated temperature, or marked deterioration in the person's general condition.

4. Additional Tests

Depending on the symptoms and the patient's overall health, the doctor may request additional tests, particularly in cases of severe diarrhea or vomiting. These may include:

Complete blood count (CBC).
Electrolyte and kidney function tests to assess the effects of fluid loss.
Tests to evaluate the degree of dehydration and overall condition.

Can Salmonella Be Diagnosed Based on Symptoms Alone?

No. Salmonella infection cannot be confirmed based solely on symptoms because diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain can occur with many other infections and digestive disorders.

The doctor may therefore recommend a stool test or other laboratory tests to confirm Salmonella infection, particularly when symptoms are severe or persistent or when complications are suspected.

Treatment of Salmonella With Medications

Treatment depends on the type of infection, severity of symptoms, and the person's overall health. In most cases of Salmonella gastroenteritis, antibiotics are not necessary because many infections improve on their own. Treatment primarily focuses on replacing lost fluids and electrolytes and monitoring symptoms.

1. Replacing Fluids and Electrolytes

Fluid replacement is the most important part of treatment, especially when diarrhea or vomiting is present, as it helps prevent dehydration.

Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) can be used to replace fluids and electrolytes lost through diarrhea and vomiting.

If dehydration is severe or the person cannot drink enough fluids, intravenous fluids may be needed in a medical facility.

2. Antibiotics

Antibiotics are not routinely used for every Salmonella infection, because most uncomplicated cases of gastroenteritis improve without them. Unnecessary antibiotic use can also cause side effects and contribute to antibiotic resistance.

A doctor may consider antibiotics in certain situations, including:

Severe infection.
Salmonella infection that has spread beyond the digestive tract or entered the bloodstream.
Conditions that increase the risk of complications, such as a weakened immune system.
Typhoid fever or paratyphoid fever, which require appropriate medical evaluation and treatment.

The choice of antibiotic depends on the individual case and may be guided by the type of Salmonella, laboratory results, culture findings, and antibiotic susceptibility testing when appropriate, particularly because some Salmonella strains have developed resistance to certain antibiotics.

3. Medications for Diarrhea

Anti-diarrheal medications should not be taken without medical advice when Salmonella infection is suspected, particularly if there is fever or blood in the stool. Such medications may not be appropriate for some bacterial infections.

It is therefore advisable to consult a doctor or pharmacist before using medication to control diarrhea.

4. Treatment for Vomiting and Fever

In some cases, a doctor may recommend medication to relieve vomiting, particularly when vomiting makes it difficult to drink enough fluids.

Appropriate medication may also be used to relieve fever or pain, depending on the person's age, health condition, and recommended dosage.

Children should not be given medication without confirming that it is appropriate for their age and weight and seeking professional medical advice when necessary.

When Does Salmonella Require Urgent Medical Care?

Prompt medical evaluation is recommended if there are signs of severe infection or complications, including:

Significant dehydration or markedly reduced urination.
Blood in the stool.
Repeated vomiting that prevents adequate fluid intake.
High or persistent fever.
Severe or worsening abdominal pain.
Severe weakness or unusual lethargy.
Noticeable deterioration in the person's general condition.

People at higher risk of complications, including young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems, may require closer medical attention when Salmonella symptoms develop.

How to Prevent Salmonella Infection

The risk of Salmonella infection can be significantly reduced by following proper hand hygiene, food safety, cooking, and storage practices. Salmonella is most commonly transmitted through contaminated food or water, but it can also spread through contact with infected people or animals.

1. Wash Your Hands Thoroughly

Washing your hands with soap and water is one of the most important ways to prevent Salmonella infection, especially:

Before preparing or eating food.
After using the toilet.
After changing diapers.
After touching animals or animal waste.
After handling raw meat, poultry, or eggs.
After cleaning areas where animals are kept.

It is recommended to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for about 20 seconds, making sure to clean all parts of the hands, including between the fingers and under the fingernails.

2. Cook Food Thoroughly

Proper cooking helps destroy Salmonella bacteria and reduce the risk of infection. Therefore:

Cook poultry, meat, and eggs thoroughly.
Avoid eating raw or undercooked eggs.
Make sure meat and poultry are fully cooked on the inside rather than relying only on the appearance of the surface.
Use a food thermometer when available to ensure that food reaches a safe internal temperature.

3. Prevent Cross-Contamination

Salmonella can spread from raw foods to ready-to-eat foods through contaminated utensils, cutting boards, and kitchen surfaces.

To reduce this risk:

Use separate cutting boards and knives for raw meat and poultry, or wash them thoroughly before using them with other foods.
Do not place cooked food on a plate that previously held raw meat or poultry unless the plate has been thoroughly washed.
Clean kitchen surfaces and utensils thoroughly after handling raw foods.
Keep raw foods separate from ready-to-eat foods during storage and preparation.

4. Handle Eggs Safely

Salmonella can be present on the outside of an eggshell or, in some circumstances, inside the egg. Safe egg handling practices include:

Store eggs according to the instructions provided on the packaging.
Cook eggs thoroughly, particularly when their source or production conditions are uncertain.
Avoid eating raw dough or cake batter containing raw eggs.
Use pasteurized egg products when preparing recipes that require eggs without cooking, if available.

5. Wash Fruits and Vegetables

Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating them, especially produce that will be consumed raw.

They should also be kept separate from raw meat and poultry during preparation to prevent bacterial contamination.

6. Store Food Properly

Proper food storage helps limit bacterial growth. It is recommended to:

Refrigerate perishable foods as soon as possible.
Avoid leaving cooked or perishable foods at room temperature for extended periods.
Store leftovers in clean, covered containers.
Reheat food thoroughly before eating it.
Follow expiration dates and the storage instructions provided on food packaging.

7. Use Safe Water

Use safe water for drinking, preparing food, and washing produce. Avoid water from unknown or untreated sources, especially when traveling to areas where water quality may not be reliable.

8. Take Care When Handling Animals

Some animals can carry Salmonella bacteria and transmit them to humans even when they appear healthy.

Therefore:

Wash your hands thoroughly after touching animals.
Avoid touching your mouth or eating while handling animals.
Clean animal living areas and equipment appropriately.
Do not allow animals into areas where food is prepared.
Wash your hands after cleaning animal cages or handling animal waste.

9. Prevent the Spread of Infection From an Infected Person

If someone in the household has Salmonella infection or diarrhea, precautions should be taken to reduce the risk of transmission, including:

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the toilet.
Avoid preparing food for other people while sick, in accordance with health guidance.
Clean toilets and surfaces that may have become contaminated.
Avoid sharing items that could become contaminated.
Dispose of diapers and contaminated materials safely and hygienically.

10. Prevent Salmonella During Travel

When traveling to areas where food- and waterborne infections are more common, take the following precautions:

Choose thoroughly cooked foods.
Avoid raw or unpasteurized foods.
Drink safe water.
Wash your hands regularly.
Avoid foods that have been left at unsafe temperatures for extended periods.
Be cautious when eating food from sources that may not follow proper hygiene practices.