You want to be able to enjoy the holiday feast without worrying about food poisoning. However, sometimes it just happens—even at our favorite holiday gatherings. Our team at AFC Urgent Care Ooltewah wants you to know how to recognize the symptoms of food poisoning, as well as how to tell the difference between food poisoning and the stomach virus.

Will Food Poisoning Symptoms Last for Days?

Usually, a person will start to experience the symptoms of food poisoning within a few hours of eating or drinking a contaminated food. Once symptoms strike, they can last from a few hours to a few days, depending on the severity of the contamination. If your symptoms linger longer than that, though, you likely have some other type of stomach-related illness.

Symptoms of Food Poisoning

• Pain in abdomen
• Chills
• Dehydration
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Bloating
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Indigestion
• Weakness

What Is the Difference Between Food Poisoning and a Stomach Virus?

The stomach flu is a viral illness, and it is extremely contagious and can last for a few days. Food poisoning, on the other hand, is a condition that can cause a person to become sick due to food or beverage contamination. It is not contagious.

Ways to Prevent Food Poisoning

• Wash your hands regularly.
• Wash worktops.
• Wash dishcloths often.
• Use separate chopping boards.
• Keep raw meat separate from ready-to-eat foods.
• Cook food thoroughly.
• Refrigerate leftovers quickly.
• Watch use-by dates.

Do you think you might have food poisoning? Stop by AFC Urgent Care Ooltewah today! No appointment is needed.