| Salmonella
and Drinking Water from Private Wells
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(108 KB/2 pages) What
is salmonellosis?
Salmonellosis is an infection
caused by the bacteria called Salmonella, which has been known to
cause illness for more than 100 years.� There are many different kinds of
Salmonella bacteria, and they are spread through human or animal
feces.
How can I become infected
with salmonellosis?
You can get salmonellosis
by eating foods contaminated with animal feces.� These foods are often of
animal origin, such as beef, poultry, milk, or eggs.� However, all foods
including raw vegetables can become contaminated.� Thoroughly cooking your
food will kill the bacteria. Infected food handlers who do not wash their
hands with soap and water after using the bathroom could easily spread the
bacteria to the food they are preparing.�
Salmonella may also
be found in the feces of some pets, especially those with diarrhea.� You
can become infected if you do not wash your hands after touching the feces
of these animals.
Where and how does Salmonella get into drinking water?
Salmonella is found in every region of the United States and throughout
the world.� Millions of germs can be released in a bowel movement of an infected
human or animal.� Salmonella may be found in water so urces such as
private wells that have been contaminated with the feces of infected humans
or animals.� Waste can enter the water through various ways, including sewage
overflows, polluted storm water runoff, and agricultural runoff.
What are the symptoms
of salmonellosis?
The most common symptoms
of salmonellosis include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.� Symptoms
develop 12 to 72 hours after infection and usually last 4 to 7 days.� Most
people recover without treatment.
Some people may have severe
diarrhea and may need to be hospitalized.� In these people, the bacteria
may spread from the intestines to the blood, and then to other parts of
the body.� Such infections can cause death if the person is not treated
in time with antibiotics.� The elderly, infants, and those with weakened
immune systems are more likely to have a severe illness.
What should I do if I
think I have salmonellosis?
See your health care provider
to discuss your concerns.
How is a Salmonella
infection diagnosed?
Laboratory tests can determine
if Salmonella is the cause of illness.� These tests will identify
the bacteria in the stool samples from an infected person.� Sometimes these
tests are not performed unless the laboratory is asked specifically to look
for the bacteria.� Once the bacteria have been identified, further testing
can determine its specific type and the right antibiotics to treat it.
What is the treatment for salmonellosis?
If you have salmonellosis, you will usually
get better in 5 to 7 days.� You probably will not require treatment unless
you become severely dehydrated or if the infection spreads from the intestines
to other parts of the body.� If you have severe diarrhea, you may require
rehydration therapy.� If the infection spreads from the intestines, you
may need antibiotics.� Unfortunately, some Salmonella bacteria have
become resistant to antibiotics.� Consult with your health care provider.
How do I remove Salmonella from my drinking water?
Fully boiling your water for 1 minute (3 minutes if you live
in a high altitude) will kill or inactivate the bacteria.�Water should then be stored in a
clean container with a lid and refrigerated.
Currently, there is no filter certified to remove the bacteria
from water.� This issue is currently being studied.
You may also disinfect your well.� Contact your local health
department for the recommended procedures.� Remember to test your well water
periodically to make sure the problem does not recur.
Revised Summer 2003
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