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Apr 12, 2025By Priya Sharma
There’s nothing that shakes a parent more than watching their child double over in pain after a meal you thought was perfectly safe. Read below this article to explore the signs, causes, and treatment of food poisoning in kids.
What Is Food Poisoning?
Food poisoning happens when your child eats something contaminated with harmful bacteria, viruses, or toxins. Common culprits include Salmonella, E. coli, Norovirus, and Listeria, which can sneak into undercooked meat, unwashed fruits, dairy left out too long, or leftover pasta from last night.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children under 5 years of age have a higher risk of foodborne illness. In fact, foodborne illnesses cause around 48 million cases in the U.S. each year.
Common Signs of Food Poisoning in Kids
If your little one recently ate and now has a combination of these symptoms, food poisoning might be the reason. These symptoms usually show up within 2 to 6 hours after eating the contaminated food but can appear up to 24 hours later.
- Nausea or vomiting
- Watery or bloody diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue or fussiness
However, make sure to call your pediatrician immediately if:
- Your child is under 3 months old and has diarrhea or vomiting
- There’s blood in vomit or stool
- They show signs of dehydration, including no tears, dry mouth, or no urination for 8+ hours
- Fever climbs above 102°F
- They seem unusually drowsy or lethargic
Home Remedies To Treat Food Poisoning
If your child is experiencing mild symptoms, here’s how you can effectively help relieve the symptoms:
- Keep them hydrated. By offering small sips of water, clear broths, or oral rehydration solutions such as Pedialyte.
- Let the stomach rest, and avoid forcing food too soon. Start with bland foods, such as toast, rice, or applesauce once they’re ready.
- Avoid sugary drinks and dairy as they can make symptoms worse during recovery.
Prevention Tips Every Parent Should Know
Here are a few simple food safety habits that can significantly help prevent food poisoning in kids:
- Always wash fruits and veggies
- Cook meat thoroughly, especially chicken and ground beef)
- Keep food refrigerated below 40°F (4°C)
- Teach hand washing before eating
Did you know that, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, cross-contamination is one of the biggest causes of foodborne illness in kids? That means, just a single unwashed cutting board can be the reason.
The Bottom Line
Seeing your child sick from food poisoning is never easy. But most children recover within a few days with proper care. If you still suspect the condition to worsen, seek immediate medical advice.
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