Gram-negative, non-spore-forming and predominantly motile rods belonging to the family of Enterobacteriaceae. Found worldwide, they may colonise food such as dairy products and ice cream due to poor hygiene. From there, the bacteria may reach the human intestinal tract. An infection requires a large number of pathogens. Salmonellae that are not inactivated in the stomach enter the intestine. They penetrate the intestinal mucosa and release bacterial toxins. These endotoxins finally lead to an inflammation and cause gastro-intestinal problems. Gastroenteritis with salmonellae needs to be reported.
