Language selection

Search

Pathogen: Clostridium perfringens - bacteria

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

Start of symptoms / how long they last

Symptoms of C. perfringens may occur within 6 to 24 hours after eating contaminated food. The usual onset time is 10 to 12 hours.

Most symptoms subside within 24 hours. However, some can last for up to two weeks.

Potential health impacts

C. perfringens are a spore-forming bacteria. They are found in soil, dust, sewage, and human and animal intestines. If consumed, these spores produce toxins (poison) in the intestinal tract, which can make you sick.

Food commonly associated

A wide variety of food can become contaminated with C. perfringens. Typically this bacterium will grow in foods that are high in starch or high in protein, such as cooked beans, meat products, thick soups, and gravy. Leftovers that aren't cooled and reheated properly may contain a lot of the bacteria.

The toxins are most commonly associated with foodborne illness, which can happen where food is

This pattern is common in cafeterias, hospitals, nursing homes and prisons.

How to protect yourself

Ordinary cooking will not kill C. perfringens spores because some strains can survive at the boiling point (100°C or 212°F) for up to an hour.
Date modified: