Saturday, November 24, 2018

Prevent Illness from C. perfringens

"Clostridium perfringens (C. perfringens) is one of the most common causes of food poisoning in the United States. CDC estimates C. perfringens causes nearly 1 million cases of foodborne illness each year in the United States.
Find out more about this germ and steps you can take to prevent illness.

What is C. perfringens?

C. perfringens are bacteria that can be found on raw meat and poultry, in the intestines of animals and humans, and in the environment. Some strains produce a toxin that causes diarrhea.

What are common food sources of C. perfringens?

Meat and poultry are common sources of C. perfringens infections. C. perfringens infection can result when certain foods, such as large roasts or big pots of stew, are not kept at proper holding temperatures before serving. Outbreaks tend to happen in places that serve large groups, such as hospitals, school cafeterias, prisons, and nursing homes, or at events with catered food.

Who is at risk of C. perfringens food poisoning?

Anyone can get food poisoning from C. perfringens.

What are the symptoms of C. perfringens food poisoning?

People with C. perfringens food poisoning develop diarrhea and abdominal cramps within 6 to 24 hours after eating contaminated food. The illness usually begins suddenly and lasts for less than 24 hours. People can become dehydrated, so it’s important to drink plenty of fluids. This infection usually does not cause fever or vomiting, and it cannot be passed from one person to another..."
C. perfringens

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