November 13, 2026 · ✓ Medically Reviewed by Apex Clinical Team
Most food poisoning causes vomiting, diarrhoea and stomach cramps that settle within a few days with fluids and rest. Get medical help the same day if you cannot keep fluids down, show signs of dehydration, have blood in your stool or vomit, a high fever, severe stomach pain, or if the person affected is a baby, an older adult, pregnant, or has a long-term illness. When many people fall ill after the same meal, everyone who ate it should watch for symptoms over the next 24–48 hours.
A local reminder from Devanahalli taluk
In March 2026, more than 60 people fell ill after eating prasada during Ramnavami celebrations at Bettenahalli village in Devanahalli taluk. Around 400 people had eaten the food; several developed abdominal cramps, vomiting and diarrhoea about 10 hours later. Most were treated at the Aradeshanahalli Primary Health Centre, about 14 people received care at private facilities, and food samples were sent for forensic analysis. Health officials said all were out of danger (The Hindu).
Community meals, weddings, temple festivals, office caterers and roadside food are part of life in Devanahalli, Yelahanka and Bagalur. The point isn't to avoid them — it's to know the signs and act early.
How common is foodborne illness?
The World Health Organization estimates that 866 million people — almost 1 in 9 worldwide — fall ill after eating contaminated food each year, and 1.52 million die. Children under five carry 29% of the health burden from unsafe food (WHO). Contaminated food can cause more than 200 diseases, from diarrhoea to more serious conditions.
Common causes and how quickly symptoms start
| Likely cause | Typical foods | Usual onset | Main symptoms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bacterial toxins (e.g. Staphylococcus, Bacillus cereus) | Rice, sweets, milk products, food left at room temperature | 1–6 hours (sometimes longer) | Sudden vomiting, cramps |
| Salmonella | Undercooked eggs, poultry, mayonnaise | 6–72 hours | Diarrhoea, fever, cramps |
| E. coli and other bacteria | Contaminated water, raw salads, undercooked meat | 1–10 days | Diarrhoea (sometimes bloody), cramps |
| Norovirus | Contaminated water, ice, shared food, unwashed hands | 12–48 hours | Vomiting, diarrhoea, body ache |
| Hepatitis A/E (not "food poisoning" but food- and water-borne) | Contaminated water, street food | 2–8 weeks | Fever, nausea, jaundice |
Onset times are typical ranges; individual cases vary. Your doctor may order stool or blood tests if symptoms are severe or prolonged.
Food poisoning vs other causes of stomach upset
| Feature | Food poisoning | Acid reflux / gastritis | Appendicitis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Start | Hours after a meal, often several people affected | Linked to spicy or heavy meals, empty stomach | Gradual, worsening pain |
| Pain | Cramping, all over the abdomen | Burning in upper abdomen | Starts near the navel, moves to lower right |
| Vomiting / diarrhoea | Common | Uncommon | Vomiting may occur; diarrhoea less common |
| Fever | Sometimes | Rare | Often low-grade |
| Action | Fluids; see doctor if warning signs | Doctor if frequent | Emergency care |
Managing mild food poisoning at home
According to the NHS, most people get better at home within about a week. To help recovery:
- Sip fluids often — oral rehydration solution (ORS) is best; also water, thin buttermilk, coconut water, clear soups.
- Eat light food when you feel ready — rice, idli, curd rice, bananas, toast.
- Rest, and avoid alcohol, caffeine and very oily or spicy food for a few days.
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap after using the toilet and before handling food, to protect others.
- Don't take anti-diarrhoea medicines or antibiotics without a doctor's advice, especially if you have fever or blood in the stool.
Signs of dehydration to watch for
The NHS lists these signs:
- feeling very thirsty
- dark yellow, strong-smelling urine, or passing little urine
- dizziness or light-headedness
- feeling tired
- dry mouth, lips and eyes
In babies and young children, look for fewer wet nappies, a sunken soft spot on the head, few or no tears when crying, and unusual drowsiness.
When to see a doctor or go to hospital
Get same-day medical care if:
- vomiting stops you keeping any fluids down for more than a few hours
- diarrhoea lasts more than 2–3 days in adults, or more than 24 hours in young children
- you have signs of dehydration
- there is blood in vomit or stool
- you have a temperature of 38°C or above that doesn't settle
- you are pregnant, over 65, or have diabetes, kidney disease or a weak immune system
Go to the emergency department if there is severe abdominal pain, confusion, fainting, very little urine, or the person is a baby who is floppy or not feeding.
Food safety at functions and festivals
| Do | Avoid |
|---|---|
| Eat food that is freshly cooked and served hot | Rice, sweets and gravies left out for many hours |
| Drink sealed or boiled water | Ice and juices of unknown source |
| Wash hands before eating | Cut fruit and salads left uncovered |
| Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours | Reheating the same food more than once |
How we can help
The Gastroenterology department at Apex Multispeciality Hospital treats severe or persistent diarrhoea, vomiting, infections and other digestive problems. For fever with dehydration, our Internal Medicine team can assess and manage fluids, and children are seen by Paediatrics.
Contact us to book a consultation or call our emergency line if symptoms are severe.
Frequently asked questions
How long does food poisoning last?
Most cases improve within a few days, and nearly all within about a week. See a doctor if symptoms last longer, get worse, or if there are signs of dehydration or blood in the stool.
What should I drink when I have food poisoning?
Oral rehydration solution (ORS) is best because it replaces both water and salts. Water, coconut water, thin buttermilk and clear soups also help. Take small, frequent sips if you feel sick.
Should I take antibiotics for food poisoning?
Usually not. Most food poisoning is caused by viruses or toxins and settles without antibiotics. Take them only if a doctor prescribes them after assessing you.
When is food poisoning an emergency?
Go to hospital if you cannot keep fluids down, have signs of severe dehydration, blood in vomit or stool, severe stomach pain, confusion, or if a baby or frail older person is affected.
Is there a gastroenterologist near Devanahalli and Yelahanka?
Apex Multispeciality Hospital on Bellahalli Main Road, Yelahanka, Sathanur has a Medical and Surgical Gastroenterology department. Call +91-80-29918321 for appointments or +91-80-29917805 in an emergency.
Contact Apex Multispeciality Hospital, Yelahanka
Apex Multispeciality Hospital, Bellahalli Main Road, Near Reva University, Yelahanka, Sathanur, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560064.
- Emergency: +91-80-29917805
- Appointments: +91-80-29918321
- WhatsApp: +91 82964 22571
- Contact us and directions
In a life-threatening emergency, call 112 (national emergency number) or 108 (ambulance) and go to the nearest emergency department.
Reviewed by the Apex clinical team. This article is for general health information and is not a substitute for a consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a qualified doctor. If you think you or someone with you is having a medical emergency, call 112 or 108 immediately.
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