In order to prevent the occurrence of foodborne infectious diseases, we inform the public to follow the following preventive measures to protect their health:
– Thoroughly wash hands before preparing and consuming food, and wash hands frequently during food preparation.
– Food should be consumed immediately after preparation. If not used right away, it should be stored at a temperature between 2 to 8 degrees Celsius (in a refrigerator), and when reused, it should be reheated to a temperature above 70 degrees Celsius.
– Do not consume raw or insufficiently cooked food, especially meat and meat products, unpasteurized milk, dairy products, and eggs.
– Raw and prepared food should be stored separately in the refrigerator, in separate protected containers, to avoid contamination of already prepared food.
– Do not leave prepared food at room temperature for more than 1 hour; store it in the refrigerator immediately after use. It is recommended that such food be kept for no more than three days and reheated only once.
– Fresh vegetables, fruits, and salads must be thoroughly washed under a strong stream of water – before eating, cutting, or cooking.
– During the summer period, avoid easily perishable foods such as mayonnaise, creams, and ice cream made from fresh or thermally unprocessed eggs.
– Drink safe water. If you are unsure of its quality, it must be boiled before use.
– For pregnant women, individuals with chronic illnesses, people with weakened immune systems, individuals over 65, and young children, special attention is required when consuming food during the summer. In addition to following general preventive measures meant for the entire population, these individuals should also follow the specific health protection recommendations:
– Avoid using unpasteurized milk and dairy products made from unpasteurized milk, such as soft cheeses, spreads, etc.
– Avoid consuming pâtés, cured meats, smoked fish, and other smoked or thermally unprocessed meat products.
– Avoid using pre-prepared fruit and vegetable salads (that are not thermally processed).
– Avoid consuming ice cream, mayonnaise, and creams made with fresh or insufficiently cooked eggs.
– For high-risk individuals, it is recommended to consume only freshly prepared food made at home.
The guidelines for diagnosis and prevention of listeriosis can be downloaded at the following link.