What is Salmonella Typhimurium- the Bacterial Infection Affecting Kids in Europe? Is Your Kid at Risk? Expert Explains

According to the World Health Organization, there has been an outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium, which is linked to chocolates produced in Belgium, which are distributed in around 113 countries.Also Read – Can Stress During Pregnancy Lead to Complications? Doctor Talks

So basically, this is Salmonella typhimurium is a part of a group of bacteria called salmonella, which causes a wide spectrum of diseases. And salmonella Typhimurium and salmonella typhi are two types of salmonella bacteria. And they both cause different infections and the severity of the infectious diseases is different. And that is because of the difference in genetic makeup. So, this outbreak is related to salmonella Typhimurium, which can cause infection in humans and animals. And it is often associated with, animals and animal products. It is transferred to humans through, the consumption of raw or undercooked infected food. Also Read – 5 Reasons Why You Should Include Ladyfinger In Your Diet, Health Benefits Of Ladyfinger Explained | Watch Video

Dr Sulaiman Ladhani, consulting chest physician, MD Chest and Tuberculosis, Masina Hospital says that Salmonella typhimurium can be transferred to humans through consumption of raw infected food, including meat and eggs and basically once it is ingested. Also Read – Top 5 Amazing Benefits Of Keeping The Beautiful Snake Plant At Home | Watch Video

He says that it leads to gastroenteritis which is inflammation of the gut. And the main symptoms include diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal cramps. And this fever may last up to seven days and people infected with this Typhimurium rarely require any antibiotics for hospitalization. However, may only be needed for individuals, whose immunity is very low and who develop severe diseases. Comparatively salmonella typhi is caused by an infection in humans. And here it is known as commonly as typhoid fever and the infection here is relatively different from Typhimurium. So, no specific treatment is necessary in the case of salmonella Typhimurium and certain preventive measures can be taken to prevent it.

Dr Ladhani explains that the more vulnerable population who can develop severely enlists include children who are younger than five years. It does one more than 65 years or people with weakened immune responses. so the best way is generally prevention measures, which include proper handwashing with soap and water. especially after contact with pets or farm animals or after going to the toilet Please do ensure food is properly cooked. Drinking, boiled milk, avoiding ice, unless it is made from safe water, proper washing of, fruits and vegetables, and thoroughly washing raw poultry meat or eggs before cooking. The kitchen surfaces should be kept clean before putting, food on them and the meat should be cooked very properly. The food should be refrigerated properly before cooking after serving and regular hand‑washing is very important.