What are the risks of consuming raw eggs in terms of salmonella infection?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Raw eggs may contain Salmonella, a type of bacteria that can cause food poisoning. Symptoms often include diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, nausea, and vomiting, typically starting 6 hours to 6 days after exposure. While many people recover within a week, Salmonella infection can be severe—or even life-threatening—for young children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.

If you've eaten raw eggs and are feeling unwell, it's important to understand your symptoms early. Signs like persistent vomiting, high fever, bloody stools, or dehydration may signal a serious infection that needs prompt medical attention. Because symptoms can overlap with other illnesses, getting clarity quickly matters. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand what may be causing your symptoms and get guidance on your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

Important Next Steps

Learn if raw eggs caused your symptoms Discover if salmonella explains your stomach issues See whether symptoms need urgent care Find OTC relief for nausea or diarrhea Find a doctor for foodborne illness care Learn medically approved home remedies for salmonella Understand if you need a symptom check

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Explanation

Eating raw eggs can be risky because they might contain Salmonella, a type of bacteria that can make you sick. Salmonella infection can cause symptoms like stomach pain, diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, you can use a free symptom checker to help understand what might be causing them.

Who is at risk?
People with weaker immune systems, young children, older adults, and pregnant women are at higher risk of severe illness.
How does Salmonella get into eggs?
According to the research, Salmonella can be present inside the egg if the hen is infected.
What can you do to stay safe?
Cooking eggs thoroughly until both the white and yolk are firm can kill the bacteria.
Avoid eating foods that contain raw egg, like certain homemade mayonnaise or cookie dough.

Being careful with how you handle and cook eggs can help keep you and your family safe from getting sick.

(References)

Mackenzie AR, Laing RB, Cadwgan AM, Reid TM, & Smith CC. (1998). Raw egg ingestion and salmonellosis in body builders. Scottish medical journal, 9854301.
Whiley H, & Ross K. (2015). Salmonella and eggs: from production to plate. International journal of environmental research and public health, 25730295.
Hayes S, Nylen G, Smith R, Salmon RL, & Palmer SR. (1999). Undercooked hens eggs remain a risk factor for sporadic .... Communicable disease and public health, 10462901.

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