Oklahoma City, OK – Many Oklahoma 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 stored leftovers may be driving a rise in stomach illness reports statewide.

According to the Oklahoma State Department of Health, the day after Thanksgiving often brings a surge in nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fatigue. While overeating rich holiday foods can lead to discomfort, experts say improperly cooked poultry and food left out too long remain the most common causes of post-holiday illness across Oklahoma.

Large turkeys are especially challenging to cook evenly. The thickest sections—deep in the breast and thigh—often heat slowly and may not reach the required 165°F internal temperature, even when the exterior appears fully cooked. Families trying to avoid a dry turkey sometimes remove it early, unintentionally increasing the risk of bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, both commonly associated with undercooked poultry.

Improper leftover handling poses an additional risk. Thanksgiving buffets, potlucks, and extended family gatherings often leave food out at room temperature for hours. Once dishes remain in the “danger zone” between 40°F and 140°F for more than two hours, bacteria multiply rapidly. Organisms such as Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus, both tied to food left out too long, are known to cause sudden vomiting and stomach discomfort.

Nutrition specialists recommend discarding questionable leftovers, reheating all foods to 165°F, and staying hydrated if symptoms develop. Residents experiencing severe vomiting, dehydration, high fever, or symptoms lasting more than 24 hours should 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.