Consumer Reports explains that food poisoning comes from sources other than food. So, you might not be aware of several causes. Happily, in this era of the novel coronavirus, you are likely following protocols that minimize your risks. For your health and wellness, here’s what you should know.
The risk of food poisoning can come from being with chickens and kissing or holding baby chicks, turkeys, ducks and geese, and then putting your fingers in your mouth. These birds often walk, peck and roll in their feces, which contain the food poisoning bacteria.
Food poisoning can also come from hedgehogs, iguanas and turtles, which also can have feces on them.
Perhaps, most shockingly, raw pet food can give you food poisoning. Raw pet food can have high levels of bacterial contaminants. Unless it is cooked, the bacteria remains alive. If the food gets on your kitchen counter or cutlery or dishware and you touch it, and then don’t wash your hands, you can end up sick.
Food poisoning can also spread from children and other people who might not be symptomatic and who do not wash their hands after using the toilet. If they then touch you or food that you eat, you can get the bacteria.
What should you do? You should do exactly what you are advised to do to protect yourself from the novel coronavirus. Practice good hygiene. Wash your hands frequently. Wash them immediately after being with chickens and other fowl, turtles and other people. Wash them before eating. Keep your kitchen clean. And, Consumer Reports advises, take your shoes off before you enter the house. That not only protects you, it makes for less dirt and less housework!
Here’s more from Just Care:
- Processed foods and fast foods have bigger health risks than you might think
- Eating food high in fiber delivers many benefits
- Coronavirus: How it most often spreads and the immunity it offers
- Coronavirus: Life for older adults after a vaccine
- Coronavirus: Update on Medicare Advantage and other coverage
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