Richmond, VA – Many Virginia 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 reports.
According to the Virginia Department of Health, the day after Thanksgiving often brings an increase in nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fatigue. While heavy meals and late-night eating can trigger discomfort, experts say improperly cooked poultry and foods left out too long remain the most common causes of post-holiday illness across the state.
Large turkeys present a well-known safety challenge. The thickest parts of the bird—especially deep in the breast and thigh—may not reach the required 165°F internal temperature, even when the exterior looks fully cooked. Families trying to avoid dryness sometimes remove the turkey early, unintentionally raising the risk of bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, both frequently associated with undercooked poultry.
Improper leftover handling can also lead to illness. Virginia’s Thanksgiving buffets, potluck meals, and extended gatherings often result in food sitting 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. Common organisms tied to food left out too long include Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus, both known to cause rapid-onset vomiting and stomach discomfort.
Nutrition specialists recommend discarding questionable leftovers, reheating food thoroughly to 165°F, and staying hydrated if symptoms develop. Anyone experiencing severe vomiting, dehydration, high fever, or symptoms lasting more than 24 hours should seek medical care.
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.
