What is Clostridium Perfringens Food Poisoning?
Clostridium Perfringens are bacteria that produce toxins, and are found everywhere in the environment. But food poisoning from Clostridium Perfringens, which is often mistakenly referred to as the “24-hour flu,” is fairly common, causing as many as 1 million illnesses each year. These illnesses usually result from eating food contaminated with the bacteria.
How does one catch a Clostridium Perfringens Infection?
Outbreaks of Clostridium Perfringens infection are associated with undercooked meats, especially those prepared in large quantities prepared for a large group of people and left to sit out for long periods of time. While cooking kills growing Clostridium Perfringens cells that cause food poisoning, it doesn’t always kill the spores that can grow into new cells. Therefore, if cooked foods, such as stews, casseroles, and gravy, are not promptly served or refrigerated, and are allowed to sit out at temperatures between 40-140˚F (referred to as the “Danger Zone”), the spores can grow and produce new cells. Outbreaks of Clostridium Perfringens infections are usually linked to institutions such as hospitals, school cafeterias and nursing homes, or catered events with catered food.
How the infection affects you
Those infected with Clostridium Perfringens will usually experience symptoms very quickly, within 6 to 24 hours after consuming the bacteria or toxins. The most common symptoms are abdominal pain and cramps, as well as nausea and diarrhea. The symptoms from Clostridium Perferingens generally lasts around 24 hours, and they are rarely fatal. In some cases, however, the symptoms can lead to hospitalization from dehydration or other complications.
More common among small children
The symptoms of Clostridium Perfringens food poisoning can be far more severe in small children, the elderly and those who are already sick. In such individuals, symptoms can last for up to two weeks. In some rare cases, some strains of Clostridium Perfringens, or ingestion of contaminated food in large amounts, can lead to a more serious condition called “Enteritis Necroticans” or “Pig-Bel Disease,” and involves infection and necrosis (the death of living bodily tissue) of the intestines. This condition can be fatal.
If you suspect you or someone you love has become seriously ill due to Clostridium Perfringens food poisoning, and that the infection was caused by contaminated food or drink, you may be entitled to compensation for your illness.
The San Antonio personal injury lawyer at Hill Law Firm has experience handling food poisoning cases against some of the largest companies in the world. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed by food poisoning, call the Hill Law Firm today.