Salmonella is one of the bacteria that most commonly causes food poisoning

Undercooked meat and meat products, poultry, raw eggs, mayonnaise, such raw dairy products, and unpasteurized milk have a very high risk of contamination.

After a person in Buca (Izmir) passed away from Salmonella, Gastroenterology Specialist Prof. Dr. Esin Korkut pointed out that this has drawn attention to the consumption of carelessly prepared foods and discussed the dangers of Salmonella bacteria and food hygiene. Prof. Dr. Korkut stated, "Salmonella is one of the bacteria that most commonly causes food poisoning. Especially undercooked meat and meat products, poultry, raw eggs, mayonnaise, raw dairy products, and unpasteurized milk carry a high risk of contamination."

Gastroenterology Specialist Prof. Dr. Esin Korkut also mentioned that foods prepared with various ingredients, such as kumpir, could increase the risk of food poisoning caused by Salmonella. She said that the death in Buca, Izmir, served as a reminder of how dangerous this bacterium can be. Prof. Dr. Korkut explained the characteristics of Salmonella and prevention methods, issuing necessary warnings.

The risk of contamination from raw dairy products is very high.

Prof. Dr. Korkut explained that the Salmonella bacteria naturally resides in the intestines of humans and animals. "Salmonella is one of the bacteria that most commonly causes food poisoning. Since it is excreted with feces, it can be transmitted through the food it comes into contact with. The risk of contamination is especially high with undercooked meat and meat products, poultry, raw eggs, mayonnaise, raw dairy products, and unpasteurized milk. Dairy products and poultry used in foods such as kumpir can also transmit this bacterium," she said.

Symptoms and Treatment Methods

Prof. Dr. Korkut explained that Salmonella is a bacterium that can be mild but sometimes deadly. "Salmonella infection usually begins with abdominal pain, mild diarrhea, and fever. However, in some cases, it can lead to bloody diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, and high fever. Especially in people with weakened immune systems, the elderly, children, and pregnant women, it can be more severe. In such cases, if fluid intake is insufficient and timely hospital care is not sought, it can lead to fatal outcomes," she said.

Food hygiene must be observed

Prof. Dr. Korkut stated that hygiene is the most important factor in preventing Salmonella infections. "Hand hygiene and the cleanliness of materials used in food preparation are very important. Foods must be well-cooked, and products like milk should be pasteurized. Also, properly storing food and purchasing it from trusted sources will reduce the risk of infection," she concluded.