Final answer:
Theo most likely had Staphylococcal food poisoning, caused by preformed toxins from Staphylococcus aureus, which can produce symptoms within one to six hours after ingestion of contaminated food. D. salmonella
Step-by-step explanation:
Based on Theo's symptoms such as shaking, sweating, feeling nauseous, and vomiting, he most likely had Staphylococcal food poisoning. This condition is caused by the ingestion of preformed bacterial toxins in food that are produced by Staphylococcus aureus. These symptoms are typical when enterotoxins produced by the bacteria are present in food, particularly in improperly handled or stored foods, like meat and dairy products. The symptoms usually develop rapidly within one to six hours of consumption, which aligns with Theo's experience after having a late lunch and showing symptoms by 5 PM.
The Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxins are known to be resistant to low pH, allowing them to survive stomach acid, and they are also heat stable, meaning that even cooking may not destroy the toxins. Therefore, careful handling of food and maintaining proper hygiene are critical in preventing this form of foodborne illness. Symptoms from Staphylococcal food poisoning are often self-limiting, and while they can be severe, they typically resolve within 24 to 48 hours without serious complications.