Food poisoning from raw chicken: what to know

Raw chicken can spread germs to hands, chopping boards, knives, counters, and foods that will not be cooked. Eating undercooked chicken is one route, but cross-contamination is another. Symptoms may not begin immediately, and symptoms alone cannot identify the germ. Read about [Food Poisoning](/conditions/food-poisoning/) and related [Abdominal Pain](/symptoms/abdominal-pain/).

Take regular small sips of water or oral rehydration fluid. Rest and eat small portions when able. Wash hands with soap after using the bathroom and before handling food; clean contaminated surfaces and keep raw poultry separate from cooked food. Do not prepare meals for others while vomiting or having diarrhoea. [Oral Rehydration Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/oral-rehydration-therapy/) can help replace losses.

Get urgent care for severe abdominal pain, bloody stool, blood in vomit, fainting, confusion, repeated vomiting, or inability to drink. Ask for prompt clinical advice if [Fever](/symptoms/fever/) persists, [Diarrhoea](/symptoms/diarrhoea/) is worsening, or urine becomes scarce or very dark. Infants, older adults, pregnant people, and those with long-term conditions need a lower threshold for assessment. [IV Fluid Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/iv-fluid-therapy/) may be used for significant dehydration.

Ask whether you need testing or treatment, how to protect household members, and when it is safe to return to work or school. Describe the chicken preparation, possible cross-contamination, symptom onset, and your fluid intake.