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Germans Urged to Fight Foodborne Illnesses: Norovirus, Salmonella, E. coli Threats

Wash hands thoroughly to prevent Norovirus. Handle raw foods carefully to avoid Salmonella and E. coli.

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in this picture there are bowls, mugs and spoons in the kitchen sink. Beside to it there are...
in this picture there are bowls, mugs and spoons in the kitchen sink. Beside to it there are bottle, sanitizers, tissues and bowls.

Germans Urged to Fight Foodborne Illnesses: Norovirus, Salmonella, E. coli Threats

Germans are urged to take extra precautions against foodborne illnesses, as Norovirus, Salmonella, and E. coli pose significant threats. Proper hygiene and safe food handling can prevent these infections.

Norovirus, a highly contagious virus, spreads through contaminated food, water, or direct contact with infected individuals. It causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. The most common source of Norovirus outbreaks in Germany is contaminated frozen berries, particularly frozen strawberries, and human-to-human transmission via the fecal-oral route, which often occurs between September and April.

Proper handwashing is crucial for preventing such illnesses. To wash hands effectively, wet them, apply soap and lather for at least 20 seconds, rinse thoroughly, and dry with a clean towel or air-dry. This simple step helps eliminate bacteria and viruses.

Salmonella and E. coli are bacterial infections that can be found in raw meats, eggs, and sometimes fruits and vegetables. Salmonella causes diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever, and vomiting, while E. coli O157:H7 can lead to severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, and potentially kidney failure. To prevent these infections, maintain good hygiene, handle food properly, and ensure safe cooking temperatures.

To protect against Norovirus, Salmonella, and E. coli, always wash hands thoroughly, handle raw foods with care, and cook meat to safe temperatures. If you suspect food poisoning, report it to the Foodborne Investigator (FBI) via the website's complaint form. By taking these precautions, Germans can significantly reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.

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