Every year in the spring and summer period, there is an increase in the incidence of acute intestinal infections and food poisoning. This is due to favorable temperature conditions that create appropriate conditions for the reproduction of infectious agents in the environment and food.
The main causes of intestinal infections are violations of the rules for preparing, transporting and storing food. Diseases are often associated with the consumption of products purchased at spontaneous markets, as well as home-cooked dishes that were stored with violations of temperature conditions or expiration dates.
Listeriosis is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. Listeriosis is usually transmitted through the consumption of contaminated food. The main sources of infection include: unpasteurized dairy products; undercooked meat products; vegetables contaminated with soil or water containing Listeria monocytogenes; and seafood.
Symptoms of listeriosis can range from mild to severe and usually appear a few days after infection. The main symptoms are: fever, muscle aches, nausea and diarrhea, in severe cases - meningitis or sepsis, which can be life-threatening.
Therefore, prevention for citizens comes down to safe food handling.
To protect yourself and your loved ones from acute intestinal infections and food poisoning, follow preventive measures.
Vegetables and fruits:
- Wash well before eating, especially if eating raw.
Correct heat treatment:
- Boil or roast meat, fish, and eggs well;
- Avoid raw or undercooked animal products.
Safe dairy products:
- use only pasteurized milk and milk products;
- avoid soft cheeses made from unpasteurized milk.
Hygiene in the kitchen:
- wash your hands before preparing food;
- handle raw and ready-to-eat foods separately (to avoid cross-contamination);
- Wash knives, cutting boards, and surfaces regularly.
Proper storage:
- do not store cooked food for too long;
- adhere to expiration dates.
Caution with ready-made products:
- thoroughly reheat ready-made dishes (especially meat);
- Avoid eating long-stored delicacies (sausages, pâtés, smoked meats without reprocessing).
But most importantly, avoid purchasing food products in places of unauthorized trade (wild markets), which are potentially dangerous to the health of consumers.
Following these simple rules will help you stay healthy!