If you are suffering from the symptoms of food poisoning and work with food or vulnerable people, you must report this to your supervisor. The general rule is that people suffering with sickness and diarrhoea do not return to work until they have been clear of symptoms for at least 48 hours.
Report suspected food poisoning
Action we will take
We will carry out an investigation, the aim of which is to:
- try and identify the source of the illness. You may be asked to complete a questionnaire.
- investigate any commercial premises such as restaurants or cafes if implicated in your illness.
- prevent the further spread of infection, especially when dealing with young children or people who work with food. This may involve giving advice or excluding people from work.
- We are unable to carry out a formal investigation if you have not seen your GP and submitted a faecal specimen for analysis
What is food poisoning?
Food poisoning is a general term applied to illnesses picked up from eating contaminated food or drinking water. Symptoms may include one or more of the following:
- vomiting (being sick)
- diarrhoea
- abdominal cramps
- nausea (feeling sick)
- fever
The incubation period (time taken from eating the food to feeling unwell) varies with each type of organism and in some cases can be up to 10-15 days after consumption of the food. It is important to realise therefore, that the last meal you ate may not be the cause of your symptoms.
The NHS Choices website gives you further information on food poisoning.
What causes food poisoning?
There are many different organisms including bacteria, viruses and parasites that can cause upset stomachs. It is important to note that having these symptoms does not necessarily mean you have food poisoning.
The most common cause of upset stomachs in the UK is from a viral infection called Norovirus. This is also known as the 'winter vomiting bug'. It only lasts for 24 to 48 hours and recovery is usually quick. It is not necessarily associated with eating contaminated food, and is easily passed from person to person.
Visit NHS Direct for more information on Norovirus.
