Food poisoning outbreaks

If one or more people eat at the same venue and experience a similar illness then this may be due to food poisoning.

If it looks like a food business may be the cause of the outbreak, we may carry out a food safety inspection. This is to prevent further food poisoning.

If you suspect food poisoning

  • Use a separate toilet if possible. Make sure you wash your hands. Disinfect surfaces such as taps and handles.
  • Visit your doctor to get your diagnosis confirmed. This will usually involve giving a faecal sample.
  • Your doctor will contact Environmental Health. We will then be in touch with you to gather some details. For example, your recent eating habits to find out how you might have picked up the infection. It is not always the last meal you ate that led to your illness. We will ask you about your food intake over the past two weeks.
  • If your job involves handling food, you must tell your employer that you are suffering from diarrhoea and vomiting. Do not prepare food for 48 hours (two days) after your symptoms have gone.

More information

For more information, please email ecp@dacorum.gov.uk or call 01442 228000 and ask for Environmental and Community Protection.

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Page Last Updated: Thursday, 01 February 2024 at 04:30 PM