Food Poisoning in Malta: What to Do When Your Holiday Goes Wrong

Common symptoms

• Nausea and vomiting.
• Diarrhoea.
• Stomach cramps.
• Fever, aches and tiredness.

Many different causes - infections, toxins, or other conditions - can produce these symptoms. A doctor can help if symptoms are severe or unusual.

Hydration

Take small, frequent sips of water. Oral rehydration solutions from a pharmacy replace salts and sugar lost through vomiting and diarrhoea. Eat when you feel able - plain foods are often easier.

What to avoid

• Alcohol and very sugary or caffeinated drinks.
• Preparing food for others while unwell.
• Taking anti-diarrhoea medicine without checking it is suitable, especially with fever or blood in stool, or for children.

When symptoms may require medical advice

• Vomiting that prevents you keeping fluids down.
• Diarrhoea lasting more than a few days.
• Symptoms after recent travel to other regions.
• You have a long-term condition or take regular medicines.

Red flags

• Blood in vomit or stool.
• Severe abdominal pain.
• Signs of dehydration: very little urine, dizziness, dry mouth, confusion.
• High fever.

Heat makes it harder

Warm weather makes correct food handling and hydration particularly important. Heat and sun exposure can add to fluid loss, so rest somewhere cool and keep sipping.

Travellers

Keep receipts if you see a doctor, and contact your travel insurer if you need treatment. Tell the clinician where you have eaten and whether others are ill.

Children and older adults

Babies, young children, older adults, pregnant people and anyone with a weakened immune system can become dehydrated more quickly and should get advice earlier.

When to seek urgent help

Call 112 if someone is very drowsy, confused, collapses, or shows signs of severe dehydration.