FOODBORNE INFECTIONS AND FOOD POISONING

Be proactive in prevention to protect your family’s health

“The food still looks fine, throwing it away would be a waste…” is a common mindset in many households. Because of this, many people continue to eat leftover food stored overnight, consume food with slight signs of spoilage, or use canned products that have been stored for a long time.

However, these seemingly harmless habits may increase the risk of foodborne infections and food poisoning, especially during hot weather when bacteria can multiply rapidly in improperly stored food.

What are foodborne infections and food poisoning?

Foodborne infections and food poisoning occur when contaminated food containing harmful bacteria or toxins is consumed. The condition can range from mild to severe and may even become life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Common causes of food poisoning

Salmonella

This bacterium is commonly found in meat, eggs, milk, and undercooked foods. Notably, Salmonella often does not change the color, smell, or taste of food, making it difficult to detect through normal observation.

Staphylococcus aureus

This bacterium can spread to food when food handlers have skin infections, boils, dermatitis, or sinus infections, increasing the risk of contamination during food preparation.

Clostridium botulinum (C. botulinum)

This dangerous bacterium is commonly associated with swollen or damaged canned foods and improperly preserved packaged foods. Botulinum toxin can cause muscle paralysis, respiratory failure, and carries a high risk of death if emergency treatment is delayed.

Common symptoms of food poisoning

Symptoms usually appear within 6 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food and may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain and diarrhea
• Fever and chills
• Fatigue and dehydration

In severe cases, patients may experience:

• Frequent diarrhea
• Sunken eyes and dry lips
• Low blood pressure
• Reduced or absent urination

If these symptoms occur, patients should seek medical attention immediately for timely diagnosis and treatment to avoid serious complications.

How to prevent food poisoning

To reduce the risk of foodborne infections and food poisoning, families should:

• Eat thoroughly cooked food and drink boiled or safe water
• Wash hands before eating and after using the restroom
• Store food properly
• Avoid using swollen, damaged, or expired canned foods
• Do not consume spoiled or long-stored food
• Ensure hygiene during food preparation
• Prevent people with skin infections or boils from preparing food

Choosing, preparing, and consuming safe food every day is one of the most effective ways to protect the health of yourself and your family.

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