What should you know about biological food poisoning?

Contamination can happen during growing, preparation, storage, or serving. Symptoms may begin suddenly, and several people who shared a meal may become unwell. The main immediate concern is fluid loss, especially when vomiting or diarrhoea makes drinking difficult.

Symptoms can include nausea, cramping, loose stools, vomiting, and a raised temperature. The illness may settle with supportive care, but the cause and severity cannot be judged from one symptom alone.

Take small, frequent sips of water or an oral rehydration drink. Rest, wash your hands carefully, and avoid preparing food for other people while unwell. Eat light foods when you feel able, and avoid alcohol until you have recovered.

Do not take leftover antibiotics or medicine intended to stop diarrhoea without checking with a clinician. A pharmacist or doctor can advise whether an [Oral Rehydration Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/oral-rehydration-therapy/) plan is suitable.

Seek urgent medical help if you cannot keep fluids down, feel faint or confused, pass very little urine, have blood in vomit or stool, severe or worsening abdominal pain, or difficulty breathing. Get medical advice for a persistent fever, symptoms that are not improving, or illness in a young child, older adult, pregnant person, or someone with a weakened immune system.

If dehydration is significant, a clinician may consider [IV Fluid Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/iv-fluid-therapy/).

Ask what may have caused the illness, how to replace fluids, whether testing is needed, and which medicines should be avoided. Tell the clinician when symptoms began, what you ate, and whether anyone else became ill.