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Published on: 7/15/2026

What are the primary sources of salmonella enteritidis and how can it be prevented?

Salmonella Enteritidis is a common foodborne bacteria primarily spread through contaminated poultry and eggs. To reduce your risk, thoroughly cook eggs and poultry to safe internal temperatures, wash hands and surfaces after handling raw foods, and store items properly to avoid cross-contamination.

If you're experiencing symptoms like diarrhea, fever, stomach cramps, or nausea after eating, it's important to identify the cause quickly. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand what may be going on and get personalized guidance on your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

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Explanation

Salmonella Enteritidis is a type of bacteria that often comes from chickens and their eggs. Infected poultry can carry the bacteria in their intestines without showing signs of illness, which can lead to contamination of eggs either before the shell forms or through the shell after laying. If you're experiencing symptoms that concern you, take Ubie's free AI-powered symptom checker to better understand what might be causing them.

To prevent getting sick from Salmonella, it is important to:

  • Cook eggs and poultry thoroughly: Make sure eggs are cooked until both the yolk and white are firm, and poultry is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
  • Keep surfaces clean: Always wash your hands, utensils, and kitchen surfaces with soap and water after handling raw eggs or poultry.
  • Refrigerate eggs and poultry: Keep them in the refrigerator to slow down the growth of bacteria.

By following these steps, the risk of getting sick from Salmonella can be greatly reduced.

(References)

  • Suzuki S. (1994). Pathogenicity of Salmonella enteritidis in poultry. International journal of food microbiology, 8155481.

  • Gantois I, Ducatelle R, Pasmans F, Haesebrouck F, Gast R, Humphrey TJ, & Van Immerseel F. (2009). Mechanisms of egg contamination by Salmonella Enteritidis. FEMS microbiology reviews, 19207743.

  • Mishu B, Koehler J, Lee LA, Rodrigue D, Brenner FH, Blake P, & Tauxe RV. (1994). Outbreaks of Salmonella enteritidis infections in the United .... The Journal of infectious diseases, 8158026.

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