Food Poisoning

What is food poisoning?

Food poisoning, also called foodborne illness, happens when a person eats food that is contaminated, spoiled, or toxic. This can happen due to bacteria, viruses, or parasites in food. In Africa, food poisoning is common, especially when food is not handled or stored properly.

How common is food poisoning in Africa?

Food poisoning affects millions of Africans every year. In some countries, up to 70% of diarrhoea cases in hospitals are linked to foodborne illnesses. Many people think only street food can cause food poisoning, but even home-cooked meals can be dangerous if not prepared hygienically.

Myths about food poisoning?

There are many myths about food poisoning in Africa. Here are some common ones:

  • “A hot meal cannot give food poisoning.” This is false. Even a hot meal can be contaminated if it is served with unclean utensils or if hands are not washed properly before eating.
  • “African germs don’t kill.” This is not true. Food poisoning can be severe and even fatal. Eating spoiled or questionable food is not worth the risk.
  • “Soap smell on hands means soap is being consumed.” Washing hands with soap before eating is important. If your hands still have a fragrance after rinsing, it does not mean you are eating soap, it means your hands are clean!

Symptoms of food poisoning?

The symptoms of food poisoning can vary depending on the cause, but common signs include:

  • Mild symptoms:
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Diarrhoea
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Mild fever
  • Weakness
  • Headache
  • Severe symptoms (seek medical help immediately!):
  • Diarrhoea lasting more than 3 days
  • High fever (above 38.9°C)
  • Difficulty seeing or speaking
  • Severe dehydration (dry mouth, little or no urine, inability to keep fluids down)
  • Blood in urine or stool What causes food poisoning?

Food poisoning is caused by three main sources: bacteria, parasites, and viruses. These germs can be found in raw food, contaminated water, and even unclean hands. Cooking food properly can kill these germs, but some foods, like fresh vegetables, can still be risky if not washed well.

Common causes of food poisoning?

  • Bacteria (most common cause)
  • E. coli (especially Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, found in undercooked meat and dirty water)
  • Salmonella (found in raw eggs, poultry, and contaminated vegetables)
  • Listeria (common in unpasteurized milk and dairy products)
  • Staphylococcus aureus (from unclean hands and utensils)
  • Clostridium botulinum (can grow in improperly preserved foods)
  • Parasites (less common but dangerous)
  • Toxoplasma gondii (found in undercooked meat and cat feces, dangerous for pregnant women)
  • Giardia lamblia (causes severe diarrhea, spread through contaminated water)
  • Tapeworms (can be found in beef, pork, and fish that are not well-cooked)
  • Ascaris lumbricoides (a type of roundworm found in soil-contaminated food)
  • Viruses
  • Norovirus (causes vomiting and diarrhea, spreads through contaminated hands and food)
  • Rotavirus (a major cause of diarrhea in young children)
  • Hepatitis A virus (can spread through contaminated food and water)

Who is most at risk?

Anyone can get food poisoning, but some people are more vulnerable:

  • Pregnant women: Their immune systems are weaker, making infections more dangerous.
  • Young children (under 5 years old): Their immune systems are not fully developed, and they can get dehydrated quickly.
  • Elderly people (65 years and older): Their immune response is slower, making them more susceptible to foodborne illnesses.
  • People with weak immune systems: Those with diseases like HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or cancer have a harder time fighting infections.

How is food poisoning diagnosed and treated?

Doctors diagnose food poisoning based on symptoms. In severe cases, they may run tests on blood, stool, or urine to identify the germ causing the illness.

Home treatment

  • Drink plenty of clean water to prevent dehydration.
  • Use Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) to replace lost fluids, especially if you have diarrhoea.
  • Get plenty of rest and eat light, non-greasy meals.
  • Eat fresh fruits like bananas and oranges to help with recovery.

When to seek medical help?

  • If you suspect food poisoning in a child, pregnant woman, or elderly person.
  • If symptoms last more than three days.
  • If you have severe dehydration, blood in urine or stool, or difficulty breathing.

Final thoughts: How to prevent food poisoning?

Food poisoning is preventable. Follow these simple steps to protect yourself and your family:

  • Wash hands with soap and running water before eating and after using the toilet.
  • Cook food properly. Especially meat, eggs, and fish.
  • Store food safely. Keep perishable items in the fridge and avoid eating food that has been left out for too long.
  • Drink clean water. Boil or filter your drinking water if necessary.
  • Avoid eating from dirty food vendors. Ensure that street food is freshly prepared and served hot.

Food poisoning is serious, but by following these precautions, you can keep yourself and your family safe.