If foods are not properly prepared or stored, they can make you sick. Most foodborne illnesses are caused by germs like bacteria, viruses or parasites.
The most common symptoms of foodborne illness are diarrhea and/or vomiting. Other symptoms might include cramping, nausea, fever, headache, tiredness and sometimes blood or pus in the stool.
While many people with foodborne illness believe they got it from the last meal they ate, this is not always the case. Symptoms of foodborne illness can begin as early as 30 minutes after consuming contaminated food, beverages or water, but usually start one or more days after the exposure. The illness generally lasts a few days, but can be more severe in people who have medical problems or weakened immune systems.