Can salmonella cause a rash, and if so, what does it look like?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Yes, Salmonella infection can cause a skin rash. The most recognizable form is called "rose spots" — small, flat, pink or red spots typically appearing on the chest and abdomen. Rose spots are most commonly associated with typhoid fever, a serious form of salmonellosis, and usually develop within the first week of illness. Other symptoms may include fever, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and fatigue.

Because a rash can point to many possible conditions — some mild, some serious — it's important to identify the cause quickly. Taking a free, instant, online symptom check can help you understand what may be behind your symptoms, assess urgency, and guide your next steps with clarity and confidence.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

Important Next Steps

Discover if your rash could be salmonella Learn what your rash may mean today Find out whether salmonella is causing it See OTC options for rash relief Find a doctor for rash evaluation Understand home remedies for salmonella rash Find serious causes of this rash

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Explanation

Salmonella infections, particularly those caused by Salmonella typhi, can lead to a skin rash. This rash is commonly referred to as 'rose spots' and is characterized by small, red, flat spots on the skin. These spots typically appear on the abdomen and chest. In some cases, skin infections can occur due to Salmonella, leading to symptoms such as erythema nodosum, which is a condition that causes red, painful lumps under the skin.

Key Points:

Rose Spots: These are small, red, flat spots that often appear on the abdomen and chest.
Erythema Nodosum: This can occur as a reaction to Salmonella and involves red, painful lumps under the skin.
Location: The rash is usually found on the chest and abdomen.

Salmonella can cause more than just a rash, and if someone suspects they have a Salmonella infection, it is important to use a free symptom checker and seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.

(References)

Marzano AV, Mercogliano M, Borghi A, Facchetti M, & Caputo R. (2003). Cutaneous infection caused by Salmonella typhi. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology : JEADV, 12941099.
Benhachem M, Hamami A, Elouali A, Babakhouya A, & Rkain M. (2024). Erythema Nodosum in a Pediatric Case. Cureus, 38962601.
Hoffner RJ, Slaven E, Perez J, Magana RN, & Henderson SO. (2000). Emergency department presentations of typhoid fever. The Journal of emergency medicine, 11074322.

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