Food Poisoning

Food borne illness is caused by consuming contaminated or poisonous food, milk or water.  It can also be caused by parasites, bacteria, viruses, chemicals, plants, toxins and moulds.

Symptoms, duration and severity of food borne illnesses vary according to the nature of the infectious agent and the age and susceptibility of a person.

Duration may last from between several hours to a number of weeks. 

Symptoms may include

• nausea
• headache
• abdominal pains
• diarrhoea
• fever

What Should I Do If I Suspect I Have Food Poisoning?

If you are suffering from any of the symptoms mentioned above and if you suspect you have contracted food poisoning, you should contact and visit your GP. Your GP should arrange for a faecal sample to be taken for examination in a laboratory to detect the presence of any food poisoning germs and parasites.

Whilst awaiting the results of the laboratory, you and your family should:-

• Wash their hands thoroughly after using the toilet, after handling nappies, soiled laundry and especially before handling food.
• Keep the kitchen and toilet areas clean and disinfected.
• If working as food handlers, inform your employer of your illness, and do not return to work until at least 48 hours after your symptoms ceases.
• Ensure young children do not return to school, nursery or playgroup until at least 48 hours after the symptoms cease, and supervise them when they use the toilet.