Staph food poisoning causes distressing gastrointestinal symptoms, including significant vomiting and nausea.
It is an extremely common infection, with at least 240,000 cases reported each year in the United States.
Fortunately, the vast majority of people recover from staph food poisoning without complications.
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Staph food poisoning is a foodborne illness that stems fromStaph aureusbacteria.
The bacteria is typically first introduced to food either from dirty hands, coughing, or sneezing onto foods.
By the time you realize you have the infection, you’re likely already experiencing symptoms.
In the latter case, see your healthcare provider.
Treatment
Staph food poisoning can most often be self-treated.
This mainly involves staying hydrated, controlling your fever (if any), and waiting things out.
In some cases, IV fluids may be recommended to relieve dehydration if your case is particularly severe.
Prevention
While staph food poisoning can cause severe illness, it’s also preventable.
Usesafe cooking and dining practices.
Lastly, be sure to always wash your hands frequently.
Summary
Staphylococcus aureusis a bacterium found in foods that releases illness-causing toxins.
This foodborne illness is extremely common and rarely causes severe complications.
The infection develops after eating a raw or improperly cooked food that is contaminated with the virus.
Symptoms may include vomiting and diarrhea.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Food safety.Staphylococcal (staph) food poisoning.
2015 Mar;7(3):997-1004. doi:10.3390/toxins7030997
Merck Manuals.Staphylococcal food poisoning.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Food Poisoning Symptoms.
2012;36(4):815-36. doi:10.1111/j.1574-6976.2011.00311.x
