So the answer to your burning question (Is food poisoning contagious?)

is yes, the bugs that can cause food poisoning are contagious.

Food poisoning andfoodborne illnessare often used interchangeably but, if were splitting hairs, theU.S.

Shot of a young adult experiencing stomach pain while lying on the sofa at home

Food poisoning can, in fact, be contagious.

The contamination process can happen at any point during processing or production.

Some common food culprits include raw fruits and vegetables, eggs, meat, poultry, and seafood.

Is food poisoning contagious?

More specifically, she says, norovirus, a common cause of food poisoning, is very contagious.

ColiandSalmonellaare common bacterial causes, withSalmonellabeing very contagious (generally from fecal matter getting into your mouth).

How is food poisoning different from a stomach bug?

Bothfood poisoning and the stomach bug, also called viral gastroenteritis, can wreak havoc on your G.I.

This bug tends to surface one to three days after youre infected, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Recovering from both a stomach bug and food poisoning often requires rest and hydration.

For example, listeria may need treatment with intravenous antibiotics and hospitalization, according to theMayo Clinic.

Since the stomach bug is a virus, antibiotics will not help.

How long does each last?

How does food poisoning spread?

Other examples of this key in of spread include hepatitis A in food-service workers.

However, most food and waterborne pathogens spread from what experts call fecal-oral transmission.

Are there different types of food poisoning?

There are several ways food gets contaminated, such as during production, processing, distribution, or preparation.

Should I stay home if I have food poisoning?

In general, its a good idea to stay home if you have food poisoning.

This allows you to get adequate rest and hydration.

It also gives you a chance to monitor symptoms and determine if they are getting better.

When should you see a doctor for food poisoning or a stomach bug?

Treatment for food poisoning depends on the source of the illness and symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic.

In general, treatment involves replacing lost fluids and possibly taking an antibiotic for certain bacterial food poisoning likeListeria.

The stomach bug is a bit different from food poisoning in terms of when to seek medical attention.

How can I prevent the spread of food poisoning?

Oh, and also wash your hands (like a lot).

Most people will feel better within a few days.