Salmonella infection — salmonellosis — affects more than 40,000 Americans a year. The CDC posted an informational list of salmonella facts on their website:

– Salmonella bacteria are found in animal and human feces and can be passed between animals and humans.

– Culprits containing salmonella may include raw or undercooked eggs, meat or poultry. Cross-contamination is possible when hands, utensils or surfaces, such as cutting boards, are not washed properly.

– People with salmonella infection usually develop diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps within 12 to 72 hours. Most recover without treatment in four to seven days, but the illness might be severe and even life threatening.

– Treatment is with fluids to relieve dehydration and sometimes with antibiotics. In most cases, there are no long-term effects.

To guard against salmonella:

— Avoid raw or undercooked meat, poultry or eggs (including those in homemade salad dressings or cookie dough).

— Wash hands before handling food, in between handling different types of food, and after contact with animals.