Bali Belly typically takes 6 to 48 hours to kick in after consuming contaminated food or water, although some travelers may experience symptoms as soon as 2-5 hours after exposure. Symptoms usually appear suddenly and can range from mild to severe gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting.
Onset Time Details
- Symptoms often start within 6 to 24 hours but can vary depending on the type of bacteria or virus and an individual's immune response.
- In some cases, symptoms may appear within just 2-5 hours of exposure.
- The range can be from a few hours up to 48 hours or even a few days in some instances.
Common Symptoms When It Kicks In
- Sudden onset of diarrhea (frequent, watery stools)
- Stomach cramps and abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sometimes fever and chills
- Loss of appetite and fatigue
In summary, Bali Belly generally manifests within a day or two of exposure to contaminated food or water, but symptoms can sometimes appear rapidly within hours depending on the infectious agent and individual factors.
