Portland, OR – Many Oregon 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 contributing to a rise in stomach illness reports statewide.

According to the Oregon Health Authority, the day after Thanksgiving often brings an increase in nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fatigue. While rich holiday foods can cause temporary discomfort, experts say improperly cooked poultry and foods left out too long remain the top sources of post-holiday foodborne illness in Oregon.

Large turkeys can be especially difficult to cook thoroughly. The thickest portions of the bird—deep inside the breast and thigh—often heat unevenly and may not reach the required 165°F internal temperature even when the outer layers appear fully cooked. Many households remove the turkey early to keep it moist, unintentionally increasing exposure to bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, both commonly associated with undercooked poultry.

Improper leftover handling adds further risk. Oregon Thanksgiving buffets, potlucks, Friendsgiving gatherings, and long dinner events often leave dishes sitting out at room temperature for hours. Once food stays 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 known to grow on food left out too long, can cause quick-onset vomiting and stomach discomfort.

Nutrition specialists advise discarding questionable leftovers, reheating dishes 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.