salmonellosis /sal′mənəlō″sis/ [Daniel E. Salmon; Gk, osis, condition] , a form of gastroenteritis caused by ingestion of food contaminated with a species of Salmonella. It is characterized by an incubation period of 6 to 48 hours followed by sudden colicky abdominal pain; fever; and bloody, watery diarrhea. Nausea and vomiting are common, and abdominal signs may resemble those of acute appendicitis or cholecystitis. Symptoms usually last from 4 to 7 days, but diarrhea and fever may persist for up to 2 weeks. Dehydration may occur. There is no specific treatment. Antibiotics are usually not indicated unless disease has spread beyond the intestine. Adequate cooking, good refrigeration, and careful handwashing may reduce the frequency of outbreaks. See also food poisoning, typhoid fever.
