Can Food Poisoning Cause a Fever?

Yes, food poisoning commonly causes fever as your immune system fights bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections. Fever occurs in approximately 60-80% of foodborne illness cases, typically ranging from 100-104°F. The fever usually develops within 6-72 hours after consuming contaminated food, depending on the specific pathogen involved. Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter are frequent culprits that trigger both gastrointestinal symptoms and elevated body temperature. Other accompanying symptoms often include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. Most food poisoning fevers resolve within 3-7 days with proper rest and hydration.