What are common symptoms of foodborne illness?

Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common symptoms of foodborne illness due to the body’s response to pathogens and toxins present in contaminated food or beverages. When harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites are ingested, the gastrointestinal tract often reacts by attempting to rid itself of the offending agents. This results in symptoms such as nausea, which is the urge to vomit, followed by actual vomiting, and diarrhea, which is characterized by loose or watery stools. These symptoms are directly linked to the infection or intoxication caused by the pathogens and are considered hallmark signs of a foodborne illness. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for prompt identification and response when someone may be affected by contaminated food.

Other options like fever and headaches, coughing and sneezing, or fatigue and muscle aches can occur in illnesses but are not specific to foodborne illnesses. These symptoms could point to various other medical conditions or infections, making them less relevant for identifying food-related disease specifically.