What should you know about the main cause of food poisoning?

Bacteria, viruses, parasites, and toxins can enter food or water at different points: during farming, preparation, cooking, storage, or serving. Cross-contamination can occur when raw food, hands, utensils, or surfaces transfer germs to ready-to-eat food. Symptoms may include Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhoea, Abdominal Pain, or Fever. The timing and combination of symptoms vary by the germ or toxin, so symptoms alone cannot identify the exact cause.

Rest and take frequent small sips of water or Oral Rehydration Therapy, especially after vomiting or diarrhoea. Eat light foods when you feel able and avoid preparing food for other people while unwell. Wash hands with soap and water, clean contaminated surfaces, and keep raw foods separate from cooked foods. A clinician may recommend testing or treatment; severe dehydration may need IV Fluid Therapy.

Seek urgent care for severe dehydration, inability to keep fluids down, blood in vomit or stool, severe Abdominal Pain, confusion, fainting, breathing difficulty, or a high or persistent Fever. Get medical advice promptly for symptoms in a young child, an older adult, during pregnancy, or alongside a significant long-term condition. Contact a clinician if diarrhoea is worsening or not settling.

Do my symptoms suggest infection or toxin exposure? Should I have a stool test? Which fluids and foods are suitable? When might I need IV Fluid Therapy? How can I reduce the risk of passing this illness to others?