Food poisoning occurs as a result of eating food contaminated with germs. This is often due to improper handling of food from the time it was prepared to the time it is stored until it is eaten. This problem is often encountered in parties, picnics, or any social gathering where it involves a large group of people. What happens is that during social gatherings the food are usually prepared in bulk and they are left in unrefrigerated for too long allowing the germs to multiply in the food. Improper handling of food during the preparation also contributes to the incidence of food poisoning. Sometimes kitchen utensils are used interchangeably between raw and cooked foods increasing further bacterial food contamination. Food poisoning usually is noted within 2 hours or more after eating the contaminated food. The symptoms are nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, headache, and weakness. Although diarrhea and vomiting can be present in conditions not associated with food poisoning, adequate medical history can always lead to the correct diagnosis. The treatment involves increase fluid intake to replace whatever is lost through vomiting and diarrhea. If the person is unable to drink because of the vomiting, an IV fluid can be inserted. Avoiding dehydration is the main goal of treatment. Inability to treat can lead to serious problems and may also lead to death. Here are some very important measures that needs to be followed to prevent food poisoning. These are especially important for pregnant mothers, babies, elderlies, and those who have serious medical problems and those with weak immune system:
1. Always wash hands when handling food. 2. Separate food containers for raw and cooked food. 3. Refrigerate food that will not be eaten at once. 4. Always look for the date of expiration before eating packaged food. 5. Eat only freshly cooked food. |
