What are common symptoms of foodborne illness?

Foodborne illness, often caused by consuming contaminated food, presents a range of symptoms that indicate infection or toxin ingestion. Fever, nausea, and abdominal pain are indeed common symptoms associated with such illnesses.

Fever is a sign of the body's immune response to infection, often indicating that the body is fighting off pathogens. Nausea and abdominal pain frequently accompany gastrointestinal disturbances caused by harmful bacteria, viruses, or parasites found in contaminated food. These symptoms can lead to additional manifestations such as vomiting and diarrhea, which are also typical in foodborne illness presentations.

In contrast, the other options mention symptoms that are less specific to foodborne illnesses. Dizziness and fatigue can occur for various reasons, including dehydration or the body’s response to other types of infections. Coughing and sneezing are typically associated with respiratory illnesses, while a sore throat and headache can signify a multitude of conditions, none of which directly link to foodborne illness. Thus, the recognition of fever, nausea, and abdominal pain as key indicators makes this choice the most accurate in the context of foodborne illness symptoms.