One of the most challenging tasks for parents when taking care of a newborn baby is deciphering the cries of their little ones.
When babies cry, parents need some time before they finally understand what is wrong or what the baby needs.
In terms of diseases like salmonella, babies cannot utter what they feel or describe the pain that they are experiencing, so parents must listen to cries and look out for salmonella symptoms in babies.
What is salmonella?
Salmonella is a kind of bacteria that can contaminate food.
The salmonella bacteria can cause different disorders or illnesses. Some of these are as follow:
- gastroenteritis
- typhoid fever
- bacteremia (bacteria in the blood)
- meningitis or the inflammation of the membranes of the brain or spinal cord
- osteomyelitis (inflammation of the bone)
Are babies prone to salmonella infection?
According to studies, salmonella infections occur mostly among children who are five years old and younger.
However, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention says that babies (12 months and younger) who are not breastfed are more prone to salmonella infection.
CDC also says that any person who has a weakened immune system, whether they are children or adults, are most likely to have a severe salmonella infection.
What are the symptoms of salmonella in babies?
As babies are still not able to say how they feel, parents need to be very observant.
If the baby is experiencing salmonella infection that causes gastroenteritis, then the following salmonella symptoms in babies may be observed:
- diarrhea
- fever
- abdominal cramps or tenderness
On the other hand, if the salmonella infection has caused typhoid fever, there are other symptoms to look out for in babies.
Some of the salmonella symptoms in babies are the following:
- loss of appetite
- lethargy
- abdominal pain
- constipation or diarrhea
- headache
- fever
Symptoms usually go away after four to seven days.
How can salmonella in babies be diagnosed?
Tests by medical professionals can be run to diagnose salmonella infection.
The test will look for salmonella organisms from the stool, blood, or urine.
How do babies get infected?
Salmonella bacteria usually spread to humans through animal products. Such bacteria can also be spread by drinking contaminated water.
How can you prevent salmonella infection in babies?
For parents to prevent salmonella infections in babies, some simple ways may be employed.
Experts say that the best way to prevent salmonella infection is to practice good hygiene all the time.
Food preparation must always be following standards of proper hygiene. Food like eggs, poultry, and ground beef must be cooked thoroughly.
Hand washing is also a good technique to avoid salmonella infection.
