Handle Raw Food Products Thoroughly
Hepatitis A is entirely different from both Hepatitis B and C. It can be spread through food contaminated with the Hepatitis A Virus. Sources include unpeeled and undercooked fruits and vegetables, seafood, ice, and water. In the past, these foods have been linked to epidemics of the virus. Thus, eating habits like washing fruits before eating is important. Since Hepatitis A has acute symptoms that most individuals seem to neglect the risk it imposes, anyone can easily pass it orally. Washing raw food products can also prevent diseases such as Salmonella, E.coli, and Listeria, all common pathogens incorporated with unwashed food. Though eating healthy benefits overall health, cleanliness is also a must, especially in the food consumed.
To eliminate the virus in raw food products, it is also advisable to cook food thoroughly. The virus is highly resistant to heat, surviving temperatures up to 85℃. This is why it is essential to bring the food to a boil. However, when cooking is not possible or necessary, simply washing the food thoroughly with clean water is enough. Moreover, pre-cooked foods exposed to airborne pathogens should also be avoided, especially when food safety is not assured.
