Food poisoning occurs in a child when she consumes food contaminated with an organism or toxin, such as staphylococcus or E. coli, suggests the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Improperly handled food is more likely to result in food poisoning. Examples include foods left out at a picnic, school cafeterias or large social functions, suggests the NIH. Undercooked meats or foods left out of the refrigerator too long can also be the cause of illness.
Nausea and Vomiting
Most symptoms of food poisoning occur within two to six hours of eating, suggests the NIH. This time can vary depending on what caused the infection. A child may feel nauseated and vomit. All symptoms of food poisoning usually last about one day.
Diarrhea
Frequent, watery stools are common with food poisoning. There may be blood in the stool with certain contaminants. Abdominal pain and cramping can accompany the diarrhea.
Other Symptoms
Food poisoning can cause a mild fever with chills, as this is the body's way of fighting off the foreign agent, according to DrGreene.com. A child may become weak from the illness or report pain in the head.
Complications
Dehydration is possible in children with food poisoning. Signs of this complication include dry mouth, excessive thirst, infrequent urination (few wet diapers) or crying without tears. Medical care is necessary if a child is unable to keep fluids down for 24 hours or more or if she shows signs of dehydration. There aren't effective treatment methods to cure food poisoning, but offering small but frequent amounts of fluid can prevent serious complications.
