Sanitation Certification Practice Test

Which symptoms can indicate a foodborne illness?

1. Shortness of breath and headaches

2. Fever, tingling of hands or feet, and vomiting

3. Itching and rash

4. Chills and excessive sweating

The correct answer is: Fever, tingling of hands or feet, and vomiting

Fever, tingling of hands or feet, and vomiting are common symptoms associated with foodborne illness because they are indicative of the body's response to infection or toxins from contaminated food. Fever typically indicates that the body is fighting off an infection, which can often be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites found in unsafe food. Vomiting is a direct response to an irritant in the stomach, often leading to the expulsion of contaminated food. Tingling in the hands or feet can occur if the foodborne illness is caused by certain toxins or pathogens that affect the nervous system or circulation. The other symptoms listed, such as shortness of breath and headaches, are less commonly associated specifically with foodborne illnesses and could indicate other medical conditions. Itching and rash typically suggest an allergic reaction or skin condition rather than foodborne illness. Chills and excessive sweating, while they can accompany various illnesses, may not directly correlate with foodborne pathogens compared to the specific symptoms of fever, vomiting, and tingling.