Food Poisoning: How Long It Lasts, What to Eat and 6 Signs You Need a Clinic

The World Health Organization estimates that around 600 million people, almost one in ten worldwide, fall ill from contaminated food every year. Most cases are mild, but young children, older adults, pregnant women and people with weak immunity can become seriously ill.

After a family party, half the guests are ill by morning. The ones who sip fluids steadily, rest and know the warning signs are back on their feet within days.

Symptoms and how long they last

• Nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea
• Stomach cramps
• Fever and feeling generally unwell
• Symptoms usually start within hours to a couple of days after eating, and most people recover in 1–3 days

What to do

1. Drink small sips of fluid often; oral rehydration solution is best if you are losing a lot
2. Rest
3. Eat bland, easy foods when you feel ready, such as rice, toast, bananas and soup
4. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, fizzy and very sugary drinks
5. Wash hands thoroughly, and do not prepare food for others until 48 hours after symptoms stop

6 signs you need a clinic

1. Signs of dehydration: very little urine, dizziness, confusion
2. Blood in your vomit or poo
3. Vomiting that stops you keeping any fluids down for more than a day
4. Diarrhoea lasting more than a few days
5. A high fever
6. You are pregnant, older, have a long-term condition or weak immunity, or the patient is a baby or young child

Prevention: the WHO five keys to safer food

• Keep clean
• Separate raw and cooked food
• Cook thoroughly
• Keep food at safe temperatures
• Use safe water and raw materials

“But I should take something to stop the diarrhoea straight away.”

Diarrhoea helps clear the infection. Anti-diarrhoeal medicines can help adults with mild symptoms, but they should be avoided with fever or bloody diarrhoea, and are not for young children. Staying hydrated matters most.

Source: World Health Organization food safety fact sheet and Five Keys to Safer Food.