Dear Ill,
Food poisoning is a term used for any illness of sudden onset, usually with stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhea, suspected of being caused by food eaten within the previous 48 hours. Most cases are the result of contamination of food by bacteria or viruses. Food poisoning is usually suspected when several members of a household or customers of a restaurant become ill after eating the same food.

The bacteria most commonly responsible for food poisoning belong to a group called salmonella, certain strains of which are able to multiply rapidly in the intestines to cause widespread swelling. Salmonella is commonly caused by improperly thawed poultry, hands not washed after using the toilet before handling food, or if contaminated food is left in warm conditions for long periods of time. Other types of bacteria may be difficult to destroy even through cooking. Viruses in food are caused by raw or uncooked food coming in contact with human excrement.

Mild cases of food poisoning can be treated at home. The affected person should eat no solid food but should drink plenty of liquids, including some salt and sugar to replace what is being lost from the diarrhea and vomiting. Most food poisoning is not serious--recovery usually occurs within 3 days. If a person collapses, or if extremely severe diarrhea and vomiting suddenly develop, seek medical assistance.

Alice

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