Fatigue

Some infections may also cause an enlarged liver or abnormal liver-related laboratory results.

During certain stages, the body's immune response can produce elevated eosinophils, a type of white blood cell associated with some parasitic infections.

However, symptoms can vary considerably.

Some infected people may have relatively mild symptoms, while others can become significantly ill.

Why Hospitalization Can Happen

Most people who eat contaminated food do not necessarily develop severe disease.

But large outbreaks can still result in hospitalizations because some individuals may develop complications, significant dehydration, severe abdominal symptoms, liver or biliary problems, or other consequences depending on the organism involved.

People who are particularly vulnerable to complications from infections may include:

• Older adults
• Young children
• Pregnant individuals
• People with weakened immune systems
• People with significant underlying illnesses

This doesn't mean every exposure will result in serious illness.

It means that foodborne infections shouldn't automatically be dismissed simply because the contaminated food initially appears harmless.

Washing Vegetables: Is It Enough?

Washing fresh produce under clean running water can help remove dirt and some microorganisms from the surface.

However, washing does not guarantee that all parasites or pathogens will be eliminated.

This is especially important when dealing with vegetables that may have been exposed to contaminated water.

For produce intended to be eaten raw, use safe drinking-quality water when washing it.

Don't wash vegetables with water that may itself be contaminated.

It's also important to prevent cross-contamination.

After handling unwashed produce, wash your hands and clean knives, cutting boards, counters, and other surfaces.