Types of Foodborne Illnesses

There are many different types of foodborne illnesses, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Some of the most common foodborne illnesses include:

• Salmonella: This is a bacterial infection that can cause diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Symptoms usually appear within 12 to 72 hours after infection and can last for up to a week.
• E. coli: This is a bacterial infection that can cause severe abdominal cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting. Symptoms usually appear within 2 to 5 days after infection and can last for up to 10 days.
• Listeria: This is a bacterial infection that can cause fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea. In severe cases, it can lead to meningitis or sepsis. Symptoms usually appear within 1 to 4 weeks after infection.
• Campylobacter: This is a bacterial infection that can cause diarrhea (often bloody), fever, and abdominal cramps. Symptoms usually appear within 2 to 5 days after infection and can last for up to 10 days.
• Norovirus: This is a highly contagious virus that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Symptoms usually appear within 12 to 48 hours after infection and can last for up to 3 days.
• Hepatitis A: This is a viral infection that can cause fever, fatigue, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). Symptoms usually appear within 2 to 6 weeks after infection and can last for several months.
• Cyclospora: This is a parasite that can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, and flu-like symptoms. Symptoms usually appear within 1 to 2 weeks after infection and can last for several weeks.

If you suspect that you have food poisoning, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Your doctor can help determine the cause of your illness and provide appropriate treatment.