Tokyo Food Safety Information Center » Tokyo Metropolitan Government food safety FAQ » What should I do if I get sick and think the cause is food poisoning?
What should I do if I get sick and think the cause is food poisoning?
What should I do if I get sick and think the cause is food poisoning?
- (1)What are the symptoms of food poisoning?
- (2)What sort of investigation do Public Health Center conduct when food poisoning occurs?
First, you should seek diagnosis and appropriate treatment from a doctor at a hospital.
Afterward, if the cause of your illness is suspected to be food poisoning, you should consult with the nearest Public Health Center.
When health issues due to food are suspected, the diagnosing doctor is required to make a report to a Public Health Center. In addition, if there are any leftovers of the suspected food, do not throw them away! Save them, as they may be useful in the investigation.
(1)The main symptom of food poisoning is gastroenteritis (including diarrhea, stomach pain, and vomiting), but other, cold-like symptoms may also occur, such as fever and fatigue.
In addition, besides bacteria, food poisoning may be caused by viruses, protozoans, and chemical substances, The symptoms and methods of prevention differ for each.
Note that it is also a good idea to see the question on this site titled “If I get food poisoning, how long after eating will I feel ill?” for information on how food poisoning symptoms can change over time.
(2)When you consult with a Public Health Center about a suspected case of food poisoning, they will ask you about your symptoms and the conditions involved in the food you ate over the last several days. They may also test stool samples and food leftovers if deemed necessary. At the same time, if applicable they will also inspect the facilities of the restaurant or factory where the food was produced and investigate whether others have experienced similar problems. If the relevant business is located outside the district of the Public Health Center, the one with jurisdiction will be asked to carry out the investigation. The cause of your food poisoning will then be determined based on the results of these investigations and, as necessary, guidance will be provided to the relevant business to prevent a reoccurrence or penalties such as suspension of operations may even be applied.