Food poisoning

Food poisoning is caused by eating food that contains germs such as salmonella and E coli. It can also be caused by other things such as chemical or viral contamination.

If you think you have food poisoning you should contact your doctor who will request a stool sample. You should also contact Environmental Services.

If you have recently eaten out, either at a restaurant, takeaway or at a function and know of anyone else there who has similar symptoms, you should give us the details. If you have any of the food left, keep it in a safe place, preferably in the fridge, as we may want to analyse it.

If you work with food, very young children, the elderly or people with impaired immunity, you should always tell your supervisor when you have sickness or diarrhoea.

Our Environmental Health team works with NHS public health departments and prompt action will be taken if any outbreak of food poisoning is suspected.

For more information contact Environmental Services.