Extreme food poisoning: what to know

Food poisoning is an illness caused by contaminated food or drink. It may bring nausea, vomiting, watery or bloody diarrhoea, abdominal cramps and fever. The main immediate concern is loss of water and salts, especially when vomiting prevents drinking. Severe abdominal pain, high fever, blood in stool, confusion or symptoms affecting several people after the same meal may need assessment. The cause cannot be confirmed from symptoms alone, and some infections need specific treatment rather than self-care.

Take frequent small sips of water or an Oral Rehydration Therapy solution. If vomiting occurs, pause briefly and restart with smaller sips. Rest, wash hands carefully and avoid preparing food for others while unwell. When appetite returns, choose light foods and continue fluids. Avoid alcohol and ask a clinician before taking anti-diarrhoeal medicine, particularly with fever or blood in stool. If you cannot drink enough, a clinic may provide IV Fluid Therapy.

Seek urgent care for inability to keep fluids down, very little or dark urine, faintness, confusion, severe weakness, blood in vomit or stool, severe abdominal pain, or fever with deterioration. Babies, older adults, pregnant people and those with significant medical conditions should seek advice early because fluid loss can become serious sooner. Call emergency services for collapse or difficulty staying awake.

How can I tell whether I am dehydrated? Is testing needed because of the fever, pain or blood? Which fluids and medicines are suitable for me? When can I return to work, school or food preparation?