If you eat raw chicken, you risk food poisoning because raw chicken can contain harmful bacteria such as Campylobacter , Salmonella , and Clostridium perfringens
. These bacteria can cause symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, nausea, fever, and muscle pain, typically starting within 1 to 10 days after consumption
What to do immediately after eating raw chicken:
- There is no effective way to "undo" eating raw chicken, so do not try to induce vomiting or rinse your mouth as these actions won't help and may cause harm
- Monitor yourself for symptoms of food poisoning such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, fever, or bloody stools
If symptoms develop:
- Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids like water, diluted fruit juice, clear broths, sports drinks, or oral rehydration solutions to replace lost fluids and electrolytes
- Follow a bland diet and rest while your body recovers
- Over-the-counter medications like loperamide (Imodium) or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) may help with diarrhea and nausea, but consult a healthcare provider if unsure
When to seek medical attention:
- If you experience any of the following, see a doctor promptly:
- Bloody diarrhea
- High fever (above 38°C/100.4°F)
- Severe dehydration signs (dizziness, dry mouth, low urine output)
- Inability to keep fluids down
- Symptoms lasting more than a few days
- If you are pregnant, elderly, very young, or have a weakened immune system
Prevention:
- Always cook chicken thoroughly to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to kill harmful bacteria
- Practice safe food handling: wash hands before and after handling raw chicken, use separate cutting boards, and store chicken properly
In summary, if you accidentally eat raw chicken, watch for symptoms, stay hydrated, rest, and seek medical care if symptoms worsen or you belong to a high-risk group
