Food poisoning occurs when food contaminated with organisms is
ingested. The bacteria Staphylococcus aureus can commonly be found
on people, but when allowed to grow in food this
bacteria can produce a toxin that causes illness such as vomiting
and diarrhea. Proper hygiene and handwashing can prevent this
bacteria from entering food that will be
eaten. The major source of Escherichia is from the feces
of infected animals. It can also be found in untreated
water. Cooking at the right temperature is important in eliminating
this bacteria when it has contaminated food.
Review Date: 01/10/2011
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of
Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of
Medicine; George F. Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology,
Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, San Diego, California. Also
reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
