Foodborne illness, more commonly known as food poisoning, can affect anyone. But certain people are particularly at risk, and should be especially careful about what they eat. These few questions can help you find out if you are at risk. The young and the old have weaker immune systems than others, and must take extra precautions to avoid bacteria and viruses. Elderly consumers should be particularly cautious to avoid becoming dehydrated.
Dehydration can make food poisoning worse.
Pregnancy changes the way your immune system functions, making it easier for you to become infected with certain microorganisms that can be transmitted by food. Also, because your fetus is in the early stages of development, it is at greater risk for being infected by certain bacteria transmitted by food. A fetus can become ill even without the mother experiencing any symptoms of illness. Antiacid changes the environment for bacteria and other microorganisms in the stomach and intestines. Antibiotics change the way bacteria and other microorganisms act inside the body.