Food poisoning causes gastroenteritis—inflammation of the stomach and bowel. This can lead to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dysentery and/or fever. Often called the stomach flu, gastroenteritis is no relation to influenza, but influenza may cause gastrointestinal symptoms. It can have many causes—and symptoms won’t always resolve on their own. So, it is best to talk to your doctor. Prevent foodborne illnesses such as salmonella, Escherichia coli (E. coli) infections, listeriosis and others by safe food-handling methods. Most gastroenteritis is viral and resolves on its own with time. The most serious complication is dehydration, so it is important to drink enough fluids and electrolytes (e.g., sports drinks).