Doctor Dao Thi Yen Thuy, Head of the Nutrition and Dietetics Department at Tam Anh General Hospital Ho Chi Minh City, reported An's blood infection index reached 110 mg/L, 20 times higher than the permissible level of less than 5 mg/L. An stated that unusual symptoms, including chills and vomiting, appeared after she ate a pork roll sandwich purchased from a bakery. Thinking she had sunstroke, she took antipyretics, but experienced severe abdominal cramps and diarrhea 5 to 6 times a day.

Doctor Yen Thuy diagnosed the patient with a bacterial infection after consuming the sandwich, most likely Salmonella, which causes food poisoning. The specific infectious agent in the sandwich remains unknown.

Salmonella is a non-spore-forming intestinal bacterium found in the feces of infected humans and animals, or in the environment. Foods such as meat, eggs, animal liver, milk, and green vegetables are susceptible to Salmonella contamination. If not cooked to a sufficient temperature to eliminate the bacteria, these foods pose a high risk of food poisoning. When large quantities of these bacteria enter the body, they can cause inflammation of the intestinal lining, leading to diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and even dysentery-like bleeding.

Banh mi can cause poisoning if preparation and preservation processes are not ensured. Photo created by AI

The incubation period for Salmonella infection ranges from a few hours to 48 hours after eating. Patients typically experience abdominal cramps, frequent diarrhea, nausea or vomiting, chills, and a high fever. These symptoms often last for several days, with diarrhea potentially persisting for 7 to 10 days. Food poisoning caused by Salmonella infection can also lead to septicemia, which can be fatal if the bacteria spread widely and penetrate the intestines.

An was admitted to the hospital promptly. Doctors administered intravenous fluids and prescribed antibiotics to replenish fluids and electrolytes. After three days of treatment, she gradually recovered and could enjoy eating porridge and soup.

Doctor Yen Thuy warned that in hot weather, food spoils easily if left exposed for too long. Improper food preparation and storage significantly increase the risk of food safety issues. Everyone must always adhere to the principle of "eating cooked food and drinking boiled water" and wash hands with soap before eating.

After food poisoning, patients often experience dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, nutrient loss, and a loss of appetite. Therefore, Doctor Thuy advises patients to choose easy-to-swallow, easily digestible foods such as: rice, porridge, soup, bread, and milk. Temporarily avoid reddish-brown foods to prevent confusion with blood in urine. Drink sufficient water and avoid stimulants like alcohol and coffee.

Doctor Yen Thuy is advising An on her diet. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

To combat loss of appetite and indigestion, patients can consume yogurt to rebalance their gut microbiota. Yogurt is rich in beneficial gut bacteria (probiotics), which can improve and enhance digestion, while also stimulating appetite and overcoming a lack of desire to eat.

To prevent food poisoning, everyone should keep food clean, always wash hands before and during preparation, thoroughly clean cooking utensils, and maintain overall hygiene in the kitchen area. Separate raw and cooked foods to prevent cross-contamination. Do not leave cooked food at room temperature for more than two hours; instead, refrigerate it and thoroughly reheat leftovers. Consumers should prioritize food ingredients with clear origins and regularly check expiration dates.

Quoc An