by | Jan 16, 2024 | Healthy Living, Urgent Care Clinic, Walk In Clinic
What Happens If My Child Gets Salmonella?
When your kids aren’t feeling well, it hits hard. The stress and worry can skyrocket when your child is sick or hurting. Infections are often behind these tough times, and one infection to keep on your radar is salmonella. With recent salmonella outbreaks in the U.S., remain vigilant to avoid contaminated foods!
Though salmonella infections are less common than others, they’re still a risk. Eating contaminated food or water introduces this bacteria, often without any warning signs.
Concerned about salmonella in your child? Our AFC Urgent Care South Charlotte team can help.
How Do Kids Get Salmonella?
The culprit behind salmonella is the bacteria itself, which typically lives in animal intestines and can be found in animal feces. Eating insufficiently cooked meat or eggs from an infected animal, or chowing down on unwashed fruits and veggies can expose your child to salmonella.
Beware of raw cookie dough! It might contain salmonella from raw eggs, so it’s safer to wait for the cookies to come out of the oven. If your child does fall ill, expect to see symptoms within eight to 72 hours after they’ve been exposed.
Watch for These Salmonella Symptoms in Kids
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Fever
- Nausea
- Headache
Should I Take My Child to the Doctor for Salmonella?
Not always. Many children recover from salmonella naturally within a week. After beating the infection, your child should bounce back fast. Keep them resting and hydrating in the meantime. Diarrhea can dehydrate kids rapidly, so offer plenty of water.
But if your child’s symptoms concern you, visit our clinic. Infants and children with weaker immune systems might battle a tougher infection, so monitor their health closely. If symptoms linger or a high fever lasts for a few days, it’s time to get medical attentions.
Signs of Severe Salmonella Infection
- Symptoms don’t fade after a few days
- Bloody stool
- Consistent high-grade fever of 102 degrees Fahrenheit or more
- Signs of severe dehydration
Stomach troubles are a pain. If you’re worried, come visit us at AFC Urgent Care South Charlotte today.
