What should you know about subway food poisoning?

Foodborne illness can follow contaminated food or drink, but similar symptoms can arise from a stomach virus, intolerance, or another condition. Symptoms may begin soon after a meal or later, so the meal you remember is not proof of the source. Note what you ate, when symptoms began, how often you have vomited or passed stool, and whether anyone else became ill. The main immediate concern is fluid and salt loss, especially when vomiting or diarrhoea makes drinking difficult.

Take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration solution; small amounts are often easier to keep down than a large drink. Rest and return gradually to simple foods as nausea settles. Wash hands with soap and avoid preparing food for others while unwell. Keep packaging or purchase details if a clinician or public-health team needs them. Do not start antibiotics or anti-diarrhoeal medicines without medical advice, particularly with fever, blood in stool, pregnancy, or significant medical conditions.

Seek urgent care for confusion, fainting, severe weakness, very little urine, blood in vomit or stool, severe or worsening abdominal pain, trouble breathing, or inability to keep fluids down. Get medical advice for persistent fever, repeated vomiting, signs of dehydration, or symptoms in a young child, older adult, pregnant person, or someone with a weakened immune system. IV fluid therapy may be needed when dehydration is significant or oral fluids cannot be retained.

Could my symptoms be food poisoning or another infection? How should I replace fluids based on my vomiting or diarrhoea? Do I need testing or treatment? Which symptoms mean I should attend urgent care?