Louisville, KY – Many Kentucky residents woke up sick on Black Friday after large Thanksgiving meals, and state health officials say food-poisoning risks tied to undercooked turkey and improperly handled leftovers may be behind a statewide rise in stomach illness reports.
According to the Kentucky Department for Public Health, the day after Thanksgiving routinely brings an increase in nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fatigue. While heavy holiday eating can trigger discomfort, experts say improperly cooked turkey and foods left out too long remain the most common causes of post-holiday illness in Kentucky.
Large turkeys are especially challenging to cook thoroughly. The thickest parts of the bird—deep in the breast and thigh—may not reach the required 165°F internal temperature even when the outer layers appear done. Many families remove the turkey early to avoid dryness, unintentionally increasing the risk of exposure to bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, both commonly found in undercooked poultry.
Improper leftover handling adds further risk. Thanksgiving buffets, potluck gatherings, and long family visits often result in food sitting out for hours. Once dishes remain in the “danger zone” between 40°F and 140°F for more than two hours, bacteria can multiply rapidly. Organisms such as Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus—both linked to food left out too long—are known to cause sudden vomiting and stomach discomfort.
Nutrition specialists recommend discarding questionable leftovers, reheating food thoroughly to 165°F, and staying hydrated if symptoms develop. Residents experiencing severe vomiting, dehydration, high fever, or symptoms lasting beyond 24 hours are encouraged to seek medical attention.
ADDITIONAL SAFETY TIPS
✓ Check leftovers: Discard anything left out for more than 2 hours.
✓ Reheat properly: Heat all leftovers to 165°F before eating.
✓ Watch for symptoms: Sudden nausea, cramps, or diarrhea may indicate bacterial illness.
✓ Cook turkey fully: Verify temperature at the thickest parts of the bird.
✓ Seek care when needed: High fever, dehydration, or blood in stool warrant medical attention.
