Staphylococcal enteritis is a form of enteritis due to food poisoning caused by one of a variety of Staphylococcus bacteria. The illness is not necessarily the result of active infection, but can be the result of toxins that may have been left in the food due to improper handling prior to its consumption. Symptoms of infection include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, fever, chills, weakness, and dizziness.

Prevention

Take these precautions to prevent stephylococcal enteritis:

• Wash hands and utensils before serving food.
• Thoroughly cook all meats.
• Refrigerate leftovers promptly in shallow, covered containers.

Sources

Cooking Merit Badge Pamphlet, Boy Scouts of America, Irving, TX, 2004 ISBN 0-8395-3349-7