How can I protect myself from avian influenza through food?
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water for 15 to 20 seconds after handling raw poultry and eggs.
- Wash countertops, knives and cutting boards, and other utensils with hot soapy water after each use. Then disinfect with a solution of 5 millilitres (1 teaspoon) of bleach mixed with 495 millilitres (2 cups) of water. Keep wet on the surface for 10 minutes.
- Refrigeration and freezing does not kill influenza viruses. Cook all eggs until yolk and white are firm (never runny).
- Casseroles and other dishes containing eggs should be cooked to an internal temperature of 71 degrees Celsius (160 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Never eat filling, dressings, ice-cream, mousse, meringue, tiramisu, hollandaise sauce, Aioli sauce, bearnaise sauce, mayonnaise, or cookie dough made with uncooked eggs.
- Never drink uncooked eggnog.
- Use a food thermometer to check food temperatures.
- Store raw eggs and poultry away from ready-to-eat foods