2014 Salmonella Enteritidis Infections Linked to Bean Sprouts (Final Update) – Clinical Features / Signs & Symptoms
Multistate Outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis Infections Linked to Bean Sprouts (Final Update)
This outbreak appears to be over. However, sprouts are a known source of foodborne illness. CDC recommends that consumers, restaurants, and other retailers always follow food safety practices to avoid illness from eating sprouts.
What are the signs and symptoms?
Most persons infected with Salmonella develop the following signs and symptoms 12-72 hours after being exposed to the bacteria:
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Abdominal cramps
How long does the illness last?
- The illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days, and most persons recover without treatment.
- In some persons, the diarrhea may be so severe that the patient needs to be hospitalized. Salmonella infection may spread from the intestines to the bloodstream and then to other places in the body.
- In rare cases, Salmonella infection can cause death unless the person is treated promptly with antibiotics.
Who is more likely to have a severe illness?
- Children younger than 5 years
- Older adults
- People with weakened immune systems
More information about Salmonella and steps people can take to reduce their risk of infection with Salmonella in general can be found on the CDC Salmonella Web Page.
