Important note: See your GP if you believe you have food poisoning.
Food poisoning occurs when you have consumed food or drink that has been contaminated by harmful bacteria, viruses or toxins. Food poisoning produces symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhoea, and fever.
The most common types of food poisoning bacteria take around 2-5 days to multiply to a level that causes symptoms, and sometimes up to 10 days.
For more information about food poisoning, including signs and symptoms, types of food poisoning and how food poisoning can be prevented, visit the Department of Health's website.
Please contact the City if you think you have contracted food poisoning from a Cockburn food business:
- Complete the Make a complaint/report an issue (online form)
- If you have any of the food left over, put it in the freezer as we may be able to test it for food poisoning bacteria
- Keep any receipts for purchased food
- Note down all the details surrounding the purchase of the food e.g. time eaten, symptoms, if any other family members are affected, where you purchased the food and if you reported your illness to the food business.
The Environmental Health Officer dealing with your request may send any remaining food for analysis and visit the food business to carry out an investigation. Laboratory results for food analysis take between 5-14 days.
Many restaurant customers take home leftover food to eat in a doggy bag. If you do take leftover food home from a restaurant, please follow the Food safety guidelines for taking home leftover food, to minimise any risks.
Please contact Health Services for more information on food poisoning in Cockburn on 08 9411 3444 or at [email protected].