How does a salmonella infection spread?
Salmonella bacteria live in the intestine of infected humans or animals. Millions of germs can be released in a bowel movement (BM) from an infected human or animal. Infected animals may include chickens, pigs, cattle, and pets, such as turtles, iguanas, dogs, and cats. Salmonella is found in soil, food, water, or on surfaces that have BM from infected humans or animals on it. You can become infected by drinking water or eating food that is contaminated (dirty). Contaminated foods usually include eggs, milk, cheese, salad dressings, or meat, such as hamburgers. Salmonella infection may also spread by not washing your hands after a bowel movement or after changing a baby’s diaper. The germs are then passed to another person by simply touching the other person’s hand.
