Doctors Note Logo

Back

Published on: 5/26/2025

When are antibiotics recommended for treating a salmonella infection?

Antibiotics are usually not needed for Salmonella infections unless the person is very young, very old, or has a weak immune system.

answer background

Explanation

Most people with Salmonella infections do not need antibiotics. Their bodies can fight off the infection on their own. However, antibiotics might be recommended for certain people:

  1. Young Children and Older Adults: Babies and older people might need antibiotics because their bodies can have a harder time fighting infections.
  2. Weak Immune System: People whose immune systems don't work well, such as those with certain medical conditions, might need antibiotics.
  3. Severe Symptoms: If someone has very bad symptoms, like a high fever or blood in their stool, a doctor might consider antibiotics.

In general, antibiotics are not given to everyone with Salmonella because they can sometimes make things worse by making the bacteria stay in the body longer. It is always important to talk to a doctor to know what is best for each person.

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

smily Shiba-inu looking

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Learn more about diseases

Salmonellosis

Not sure about the cause of your current symptoms?

AI Symptom Check

Try our AI-based symptom checker

With an easy 3-min questionnaire, you can get a free AI-powered report on possible causes


Tips to try:

  • Provide specific, detailed info about all symptoms you have.
  • Give accurate information about yourself including current conditions.
  • Answer all follow-up questions

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor’s Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.