If you have been watching the news lately, it seems that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is constantly recalling food, medications, and pet products for salmonella. Even though we have heard about the problems with salmonella poisoning, many of us are not aware of exactly what it is.

Salmonella is a type of bacterial most often found in poultry, eggs, unprocessed milk, meat, water and even carried on pets like turtles and birds. Salmonella bacteria attacks the stomach and intestines and may enter the lymph tracts which carry water and protein to the blood. A healthy person may not even know that they have come in contact with salmonella, but children, the elderly and people who are ill are more likely to be seriously affected by salmonella poisoning.

Some of the symptoms of salmonella poisoning are:

• Diarrhea or constipation
• Headaches
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea and vomiting
• Feverv
• Possibly, blood in the feces

Less serious infections usually clear up in four to seven days, but the more serious infections may require treatment with antibiotics prescribed by a doctor.

How can you prevent salmonella poisoning?

• Wash your hands! Washing your hands with soap and water is the best way to prevent the spread of salmonella poisoning.
• Practice good food safety. When cooking keep everything clean with soap and hot water and and don't use utensils from one food to the next.
• Make sure food is properly cooked. The only effective way to kill salmonella bacteria is with heat, so it is essential to cook food thoroughly.