Philadelphia, PA – Many Pennsylvania residents woke up sick on Black Friday following large Thanksgiving meals, and state health officials say food-poisoning risks tied to undercooked turkey and improperly handled leftovers may be fueling a noticeable rise in stomach illness reports.
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the day after Thanksgiving routinely brings an increase in nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fatigue. While overeating can contribute to discomfort, experts say improperly cooked poultry and food that sits out too long are among the most frequent causes of post-holiday illness.
Large turkeys are particularly difficult to cook evenly. The thickest areas—deep in the breast and thigh—often remain below the required 165°F internal temperature even when the outside looks fully cooked. Many families remove the turkey early to keep it moist, unintentionally increasing the risk of bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, both commonly linked to undercooked poultry.
Improper leftover handling adds additional risk. Pennsylvania’s Thanksgiving gatherings, buffets, and potluck meals often lead to food remaining on counters or tables for hours. Any dish left in the “danger zone” between 40°F and 140°F for more than two hours can grow bacteria rapidly. Organisms such as Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus—frequently associated with food left out too long—can cause fast-onset vomiting and stomach discomfort.
Nutrition specialists recommend discarding questionable leftovers, reheating all dishes to 165°F, and drinking plenty of fluids if symptoms develop. Severe vomiting, dehydration, high fever, or symptoms lasting longer 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.
