Food-borne illness is primarily caused by bacteria, viruses and parasites that people ingest through contaminated food or water. The National Foundation for Infectious Disease reports that as many as 80 million people are infected each year in the United States. Types of food-borne illness can be mild while others can be so serious as to result in death.
Campylobacteriosis
Any of several species of Campylobacter bacteria can cause this illness, but according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, the usual culprit is Campylobacter jejuni. An infected person may have no symptoms or they may experience abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, fever and fatigue. The diarrhea may also contain blood.
E. coli Infection
Most strains of Escherichia coli cause no harm, and many are necessary for a healthy intestinal tract. Home types of this bacteria, however, can cause serious disease and even death. The strain E. coli 0157:H7 is a particularly dangerous bacteria, causing damage to the lining of the intestines and possible kidney failure. The infection causes severe abdominal cramps and bloody diarrhea.
Salmonellosis
Salmonella enteritidis is the bacteria that most often causes salmonellosis, a common food-borne illness. The bacteria can be found on fruits, in eggs and in undercooked or raw meats. Symptoms are abdominal pain and cramps, vomiting, diarrhea which is sometimes bloody and fever. Symptoms can last between four and seven days.
Shigellosis
Several different species of Shigella bacteria can cause this intestinal illness, reports Merck Manuals Medical Library. The symptoms are those of an acute gastrointestinal infection and include nausea and vomiting, bloody diarrhea and fever. Recovery takes five to seven days.
Botulism
Botulism is caused by eating a toxin produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. The most common source of infection is home-canned foods. While rare, the illness can be fatal without prompt treatment. Symptoms arise due the toxin's effect on the nervous system and include dry mouth, double vision, muscular weakness and slurred speech. Symptoms can last for up to 10 days.
Norovirus Infection
Noroviruses are highly contagious organisms that cause inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms include nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, fever, muscle aches, headaches and fatigue. People usually feel better within a few days.
Hepatits A
Hepatitis A is a virus that causes the liver to become inflamed. It can take two to six weeks after exposure for symptoms to appear. These include jaundice, dark urine, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, fever, fatigue and a loss of appetite. Some people, especially children, may have no symptoms at all. Symptoms may last from one week up to several months.
