What to do if you have food poisoning

If you experience any of the symptoms of food poisoning we recommend the following action:

• Consult your family doctor. Think about what foods you have eaten in the last few days and whether any other members of your family or friends have been affected.
• Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
• If the doctor diagnoses food poisoning report your illness to your local authority Environmental Health Officer. Prompt investigation may prevent other people suffering.
• Refrigerate any foods suspected of having caused illness. They may be needed for further analysis to determine what caused your illness.
• As far as possible do not handle or prepare food while you have the symptoms.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and hot water before handling food.
• If you work in the food industry notify your employer.

Unfortunately, it is estimated that less than 10% of all food poisoning incidents are reported.

For further advice contact your local authority Environmental Health Officer or state health authority. Here are some web sites to visit:

• Health ACT
• NSW Health
• Territory Health Services
• Queensland Health
• South Australian Department of Human Services
• Department of Health & Human Services Tasmania
• Victorian Department of Human Services
• Health WA