Food safety
Stop preparing food when vomiting or diarrhoeal
Stop preparing food and arrange for another person to take over. Seek medical advice and follow health guidance before returning to food handling.
Last reviewed: 2026-09-20
Why it matters
A person with vomiting or diarrhoea can spread infection through food even when wearing gloves.
Wrong action
Continuing to prepare dinner while ill and relying on gloves.
Correct action
Stop preparing food and arrange for another person to take over.
What to do
- Tell the employer promptly if vomiting or diarrhoea starts.
- Stop preparing food and arrange for another person to take over.
- Seek medical advice and follow health guidance before returning to food handling.
If something happens
If someone becomes ill after eating, stop serving, keep food details and seek medical care. Call 999 for breathing difficulty, seizures or unconsciousness; do not induce vomiting.
Sources and review
- Centre for Food Safety — CFS: norovirus and food handlers
Last reviewed: 2026-09-20
This page provides general home-safety information and does not replace medical, legal, electrical, or other professional advice.