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Food Poisoning (Suspected) in Japan: What to do (and when to call 119)

Last updated: 2026-03-03

TL;DR (30-second decision)

  • Call 119 now if you have trouble breathing, severe weakness/confusion, fainting, vomiting blood, black/bloody stools, or severe dehydration (very little urine, cannot keep fluids down).
  • If you’re unsure whether it’s an emergency: Call #7119 (if available).
  • For many mild cases: fluids + rest are the priority.
  • If you have hives, swelling, or breathing symptoms after eating, treat it as a possible allergic reaction (not “food poisoning”) and act fast.

Call 119 immediately (red flags)

Call 119 right away if any of the following apply:

  • Trouble breathing, wheezing, swelling of lips/tongue/throat
  • Severe dizziness, fainting, confusion, extreme weakness
  • Vomiting blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
  • Black, tarry stools or bloody stools
  • Severe abdominal pain that is worsening, a hard/swollen belly
  • Severe dehydration: cannot keep fluids down, very little urine, severe dizziness

(This page provides general guidance, not medical diagnosis. If you think it’s an emergency, call 119.)

What to do right now (safe steps)

1) Stop the suspected food
Don’t keep eating the same food “to test it.”

2) Hydrate first

  • Take small sips frequently (water or oral rehydration solution / ORS).
  • If you vomit, pause 10–15 minutes and restart with even smaller sips.

3) Eat lightly (when you can drink)
Bland foods first: rice porridge, toast, bananas, crackers.
Avoid alcohol, greasy foods, and large meals.

4) Rest
Most mild cases improve within 1–2 days.

OTC medicines: a simple rule

  • ORS is usually the most useful OTC item.
  • Anti-diarrheal medicines (e.g., loperamide): only for mild diarrhea without fever and without blood.
    Do not use if you have fever or blood in stool.
  • Pain/fever medicines: if you need something for discomfort, acetaminophen (paracetamol) is often gentler.
    NSAIDs can irritate the stomach and can be risky if you’re dehydrated—use cautiously.

“Food poisoning” vs “food allergy” (important)

They can look similar, but allergies can turn dangerous fast.

Food poisoning (often):

  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cramps
  • Starts hours after eating (sometimes sooner), and may affect multiple people who ate the same food

Food allergy (possible):

  • Hives, itching, flushing
  • Swelling of lips/face/tongue
  • Wheezing, trouble breathing, throat tightness
  • Can start within minutes to 1–2 hours after eating

If you have hives + swelling or breathing symptoms:
Treat it as an allergic emergency—call 119.

Japan-specific notes (what’s realistic here)

Japan’s food safety standards are generally high, but food poisoning still happens every year. Common risk patterns include:

  • Raw/undercooked foods (especially some meats/seafood)
  • Shared meals where several people get sick after the same dish
  • Self-prepared wild foods (fish/mushrooms/plants) can be risky

If you and others became sick after eating at the same place, keep the receipt/food details and tell your hotel or the restaurant. If symptoms are severe, seek medical help first.

When you should see a doctor soon (same day / within 24–48 hours)

Consider medical care if:

  • Symptoms last more than 2 days without improvement
  • You cannot keep fluids down or you have signs of dehydration
  • You have high fever, severe abdominal pain, or worsening symptoms
  • You are older, immunocompromised, pregnant, or have serious chronic disease

What to say (simple English)

Calling #7119 (if available)

“I think I have food poisoning.
I have [vomiting/diarrhea/abdominal pain].
It started [time] ago after eating [food].
I have/do not have fever. I see/do not see blood.
Do I need an ambulance? Where should I go?”

Calling a clinic

“Hello. I have vomiting/diarrhea since [time].
I ate [food] and symptoms started [time] later.
Can I visit today? Do I need an appointment?”

FAQ

Is food poisoning rare in Japan?

Japan’s food safety is generally high, but food poisoning is still reported every year.

Should I take an anti-diarrheal medicine?

Only if diarrhea is mild and there is no fever and no blood. If fever/blood is present, do not use anti-diarrheals—seek medical advice.

What if I’m not sure it’s food poisoning or allergy?

If you have hives, swelling, or breathing symptoms, treat it as allergy and call 119. If you’re unsure about urgency, #7119 (if available) can help you decide.

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