Jackson, MS – Many Mississippi 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 driving a rise in stomach illness across the state.
According to the Mississippi State Department of Health, the day after Thanksgiving often brings a spike in nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fatigue. While heavy meals and late-night eating can contribute, experts say improperly cooked poultry and food left out too long remain the most common causes of post-holiday illness.
Large turkeys are especially challenging to cook safely. The thickest areas of the bird—deep in the breast and thigh—may not reach the required 165°F internal temperature even when the outside appears fully cooked. Many families remove the turkey early to keep it moist, unintentionally increasing exposure to bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, both frequently associated with undercooked poultry.
Improper leftover handling adds further risk. Mississippi’s Thanksgiving buffets, potlucks, and extended family gatherings often leave food sitting out for hours. Once dishes remain in the “danger zone” between 40°F and 140°F beyond two hours, bacteria multiply rapidly. Organisms such as Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus, both commonly linked to food left out too long, can cause sudden vomiting and stomach discomfort.
Nutrition specialists recommend discarding questionable leftovers, reheating foods to 165°F, and staying hydrated if symptoms develop. Severe vomiting, dehydration, persistent diarrhea, or high fever lasting more than 24 hours should be evaluated by a medical professional.
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.
