(TacticalNews.com) – Food is an essential part of our survival, falling only behind shelter and water. However, while food is a pillar of survival, we need to be careful as it can also be the means of our demise. Can you name five foodborne illnesses? And of those five, do you know how to prevent them?
Salmonella
This bacteria is tasteless, has no scent, and appears invisible to the eye, making it hard to detect. The illness that results from exposure, commonly associated with poultry and eggs is known as salmonellosis and can cause diarrhea, fever, nausea, vomiting, bloody stool, and stomach cramps or pain.
Staph Bacteria
These bacteria cause infections known as staph infections and are often attributed to the staphylococcus bacteria. Minor skin conditions have resulted from exposure to the bacteria. However, vomiting, stomach aches, and nausea may occur.
E. Coli
Exposure to Escherichia coli happens through close contact with contaminated food or water. Naturally thriving within the intestines of animals and humans, exposure can often result in brief bouts of diarrhea.
Hepatitis A
This infection, caused by a virus is a severe contagious liver infection and contracted via contaminated water or food. Most cases are mild and require no special attention while others experience fatigue, dark urine, jaundice, loss of appetite, severe itching, abdominal pain/discomfort, and a low-grade fever.
Listeria
Listeria monocytogenes causes listeriosis which can be challenging to detect as it doesn’t cause typical food-borne illness symptoms. The infection can be carried for a long time without the host’s knowledge. However, you may experience fever, chills, diarrhea, muscle cramps, and nausea if you develop listeriosis.
Avoiding Food-Borne Illness
Prevention is simple. Store and cook food at the proper temperatures. Avoid cross-contaminating foods. Give fruits and vegetables a light scrubbing under running water.
Wash and rinse any utensils, countertops, sinks, or surfaces used while preparing raw meat or food. Use proper hygiene when washing your hands by using soap.
Food-borne illness shouldn’t be your only concern. Similar to the illnesses above, your body shows signs when something is awry. Learn how knowing these signs can help you avoid heat-related illnesses as well as hypothermia.
Did you know about these five foodborne illnesses? Have you or someone you know ever experienced one of these? Reply to your email and let us know, we would love to hear from you!
Copyright 2021, TacticalNews.com
