Medical Certificate for Food Poisoning

Food poisoning is unpleasant, often sudden, and definitely a valid reason to stay home from work. If you've eaten something that's made you sick, here's what you need to know about getting time off and returning to work safely.

Common Symptoms of Food Poisoning

Food poisoning typically causes:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea (often watery)
• Stomach cramps and abdominal pain
• Fever and chills
• Fatigue and weakness
• Loss of appetite

Symptoms usually appear within 1-24 hours of eating contaminated food, though some types can take longer to develop.

Getting a Medical Certificate

You can get a medical certificate for food poisoning through a telehealth consultation. The doctor will assess your symptoms and, if appropriate, provide a certificate for the time you need to recover.

Most cases of food poisoning resolve within 1-3 days. Your certificate will typically cover this period, with guidance on when it's safe to return to work.

When You Must Stay Home

Even if you feel better, the 48-hour rule is important because you can still be contagious. Food Safety Australia requires this for anyone handling food or working with vulnerable populations.

Recovery Tips

• Stay hydrated — small sips of water, clear broth, or oral rehydration solution
• Rest as much as possible
• Avoid solid food until vomiting stops, then start with bland foods
• Avoid dairy, caffeine, alcohol, and fatty foods until fully recovered
• Wash hands thoroughly and frequently to prevent spreading

When to Seek Urgent Care

While most food poisoning resolves on its own, some situations need urgent medical attention:

• Blood in vomit or stool
• High fever (over 39°C)
• Severe dehydration (dark urine, dizziness, confusion)
• Symptoms lasting more than 3 days
• You're pregnant, elderly, or have a weakened immune system

Returning to Work

For most office workers, you can return once you feel well enough and symptoms have settled. For food handlers and those working with vulnerable people, wait 48 hours after your last symptoms before returning.

If your workplace requires a clearance certificate before returning, a doctor can provide this once you've been symptom-free for the appropriate period.