Food poisoning occurs when people consume food or water contaminated with harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins. While most foodborne illnesses result from contaminated food, some types are contagious and can spread from person to person through direct contact, poor hygiene, or contaminated surfaces.
Norovirus
Norovirus is the most common cause of contagious food poisoning in the United States, responsible for about 50% of all foodborne illness outbreaks. It spreads rapidly in crowded places like restaurants, schools, nursing homes, and cruise ships.
How It Spreads
- Person-to-Person Contact: Through handshakes, hugs, or close contact with an infected person.
- Contaminated Surfaces: Touching surfaces or objects contaminated with norovirus particles and then touching the mouth.
- Airborne Particles: Vomiting or diarrhea can release tiny particles that contaminate nearby surfaces or are inhaled.
Symptoms
- Severe diarrhea and vomiting
- Nausea and stomach cramps
- Low-grade fever, muscle pain, and fatigue
Prevention Tips
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the restroom or before eating.
- Disinfect contaminated surfaces using bleach-based cleaners.
- Avoid preparing food for others while experiencing symptoms and for at least 48 hours after recovery.
Shigella
Shigella is a highly contagious bacterial infection that causes shigellosis, characterized by severe diarrhea and stomach pain. It spreads easily in childcare centers, schools, and households.
How It Spreads
- Person-to-Person Contact: Through fecal-oral transmission, especially if proper hand washing is not practiced after using the restroom.
- Contaminated Food and Water: Eating food or drinking water contaminated with feces from an infected person.
- Sexual Contact: Can spread through certain sexual activities involving oral-anal contact.
Symptoms
- Watery or bloody diarrhea
- Severe stomach cramps and pain
- Fever and nausea
Prevention Tips
- Practice strict hand hygiene after using the restroom or changing diapers.
- Avoid sharing food, drinks, or eating utensils with infected individuals.
- Clean and disinfect bathroom surfaces frequently.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a highly contagious viral infection affecting the liver. It spreads through the fecal-oral route and is commonly linked to contaminated food, water, or close personal contact.
How It Spreads
- Person-to-Person Contact: Through close contact with an infected person.
- Contaminated Food or Water: Ingesting food or drinks prepared by an infected person who did not practice proper hand hygiene.
- International Travel: Visiting countries with poor sanitation or contaminated water sources.
Symptoms
- Fatigue and loss of appetite
- Nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Dark urine and pale stools
Prevention Tips
- Hepatitis A vaccination is highly effective in preventing the infection.
- Wash hands with soap and water after using the restroom or changing diapers.
- Avoid consuming food or water from untrusted sources, especially when traveling internationally.
Rotavirus
Rotavirus is a contagious virus that primarily affects infants and young children, causing severe diarrhea and dehydration. It spreads through the fecal-oral route and can easily infect families, daycares, and schools.
How It Spreads
- Person-to-Person Contact: Through touching contaminated surfaces or contact with infected individuals.
- Contaminated Hands or Objects: Toys, bathroom fixtures, and other surfaces can harbor the virus.
- Airborne Particles: Vomiting can spread tiny virus particles that contaminate nearby surfaces.
Symptoms
- Severe watery diarrhea
- Vomiting and stomach pain
- Fever and dehydration
Prevention Tips
- Vaccination is the best protection against rotavirus.
- Practice good hand hygiene, especially in childcare settings.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces frequently, particularly toys and bathroom areas.