In some states, doctors must report communicable diseases, such as foodborne disease outbreaks, to government agencies. [3] X Research source

If you call the health department, you will probably have a 10 to 15 minute interview. They will ask you an array of questions. Before you call, make sure you have all of your information ready. Be as specific as possible. If you prefer to fill out an online form, go to the community’s health department’s website. They may offer a printable form or a form you can submit online.

Include how long the symptoms lasted and when they started. Common symptoms of food poisoning are diarrhea and vomiting. Symptoms may also include abdominal cramps, nausea, fever, and fatigue. These symptoms may last one to seven days.

You should also include the date and time you ate the food. This can help with the public health official’s investigation.

For example, you might say that you had two pieces of baked chicken with a side of french fries and a side salad with ranch dressing at 7:30 p. m.

Include your doctor’s contact information in case the public health officer needs to contact the doctor.

Include a description of the product, including codes or identifying marks on the label or container. State the problem with the product in detail. Provide the contact information for where the product was purchased, such as the store’s address and the date purchased. You should also report the food poisoning to the manufacturer. Don’t report restaurant food poisonings to the FDA.

Not all communities will want to examine the food, even if you have kept it.

If you have an emergency, call 911 or visit the emergency room.

Think about the other people in your home, or other people who ate meals with you. See if they got sick too and if they have similar symptoms.

Type of establishment where the food poison occurred, such as fast food restaurant, chain, bar, or bakery Name of the establishment, along with the address and phone number. Date of exposure Time of exposure, as specific as possible, a. m. or p. m. at the least Symptoms, including details, dates, times, and duration Number of people in the party affected and not affected Detailed list of foods consumed at the restaurant Any medical treatment or tests your received Foods you consumed for 72 hours prior to getting sick