What are clinical signs of Salmonella enteritidis infection in humans?

• A. Fever, nausea, vomiting, severe diarrhea; can be fatal to elderly, infants, immunocompromised
• B. Cough and runny nose
• C. Rash only
• D. Joint pain and swelling

Answer: (A)

Salmonella enteritidis primarily causes a gastroenteritis after ingesting contaminated food. The hallmark signs are fever with nausea, vomiting, and particularly severe diarrhea, often accompanied by abdominal cramps. These GI symptoms reflect inflammation of the gut lining and can lead to dehydration, especially in vulnerable groups such as the elderly, infants, and immunocompromised individuals, where the infection can be more serious or even life-threatening. Other symptoms like cough and runny nose, a rash, or isolated joint pain are not typical early signs of acute Salmonella enteritis, though joint issues can rarely occur later as a separate complication.