How Long Does Food Poisoning Last?
Most food poisoning resolves on its own within 1–3 days. Here's what to expect, how to feel better faster, and when to see a doctor.
3 min read · Updated 2026-04-01
For informational purposes only. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making health decisions.
Food poisoning is miserable but usually short-lived. Here's what to expect and how to get through it.
How Long It Typically Lasts
| Cause | Onset After Eating | Duration | |-------|-------------------|----------| | Salmonella | 6–48 hours | 4–7 days | | E. coli | 3–4 days | 5–10 days | | Norovirus | 12–48 hours | 1–3 days | | Staph aureus | 30 min–8 hours | 1–2 days | | Campylobacter | 2–5 days | 2–10 days | | Listeria | 1–4 weeks | Variable |
Most common food poisoning — from norovirus or staph toxins — resolves within 1–3 days. Bacterial causes like Salmonella or Campylobacter can last up to a week.
Symptoms to Expect
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhoea (watery or loose stools)
- Stomach cramps
- Fever (sometimes)
- Fatigue
Symptoms usually come in waves and are worst in the first 24 hours.
How to Feel Better
Stay hydrated — this is the most important thing. Vomiting and diarrhoea cause rapid fluid and electrolyte loss. Dehydration is the main danger.
- Sip water, clear broth, or an electrolyte drink (like Pedialyte or Dioralyte) frequently
- Avoid alcohol, coffee, and dairy
- Sports drinks are OK but are often high in sugar — dilute them if possible
Rest. Your body is fighting hard — let it.
Eat plain foods when you can tolerate them. The BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) is easy on the stomach and helps solidify stools.
Avoid anti-diarrhoea medication (Imodium) in the first few hours — diarrhoea is how your body purges the pathogen. Stopping it too early can prolong illness or, in some bacterial cases, make complications more likely.
Paracetamol/acetaminophen can help with fever and body aches. Avoid ibuprofen if your stomach is already irritated.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if:
- Symptoms last more than 3 days
- You have a high fever (over 38.5°C / 101.5°F)
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Signs of severe dehydration: very dark urine, no urination for 8+ hours, dizziness, confusion
- You're pregnant, elderly, or immunocompromised — these groups are at higher risk of complications
- You can't keep any fluids down for more than 24 hours
Can You Spread It?
Yes. Many food poisoning pathogens are contagious person-to-person. Wash hands thoroughly after using the bathroom and before handling food. Don't prepare food for others until you've been symptom-free for at least 48 hours.
What Probably Caused It
You may never know for certain. The most common culprits:
- Undercooked chicken, eggs, or meat
- Raw or undercooked shellfish
- Unpasteurised dairy or juice
- Improperly stored leftovers
- Cross-contamination during food prep
- Unwashed produce