Your HealthFood Poisoning
What is Food Poisoning?
Foodborne illness, also known as food poisoning, can happen when you eat or drink food that has been contaminated with bacteria, viruses, parasites, fungus, or chemicals.
Foodborne illness can be prevented by following proper food safety practices.
Common Symptoms:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Headache
- Stomach Cramps
- Dehydration
Symptoms may begin within a few hours to several days after eating the contaminated food. The amount of time it takes for symptoms to start depends on the type of contamination in the food or drink.
At-Risk Groups
Foodborne illness can be very serious. Severe symptoms are more likely to happen in higher risk groups, including:
- Older adults
- Infants
- People with weakened immune systems
- Pregnant
I Think I Have Food Poisoning
- If you think you have food poisoning, speak to your healthcare provider. There are tests that can be done to tell if your symptoms are from contaminated food or drinks.
- Get lots of rest and drink plenty of fluids to prevent becoming dehydrated.
- If you think you have food poisoning from eating at a food business in Chatham-Kent, contact us so we can investigate.