Easy Ways to Outsmart E. coli: Eat Fresh, Stay Safe

E. coli infections can occur anytime, anywhere, to anyone, Yes, this infection can strike when least expected. The main culprit? Contaminated food or water that most people do not know is contaminated. But not all the E. coli strains make people sick, some are beneficial to the human gut and give numerous benefits. But it is important to remember that some of them are harmful and cause diarrhea, urinary tract infections, or even pneumonia. Since now E. coli outbreaks are in the news, it is an absolute need for everyone to know about the preventive ways to safeguard themselves from this harmful bacteria.

Explore the Preventive Measures to Keep E. Coli Infections at Bay

1. Keep Washing Your Hands Frequently

Remember what we learned from the COVID-19 pandemic? Washing hands properly with the right technique to protect ourselves from the virus. The same is applicable to E. coli bacteria as well. The spread of infections occurs from contaminated hands, so if we wash our hands often, the spread will be halted. This practice is mandatory after using the bathroom or before eating. If you do not have soap or water nearby, use sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

2. Ensure Safe Food Handling

Well, this bacteria loves to thrive in improperly prepared food. So, always keep these safety precautions in mind while cooking. Keep your hands, utensils, and surfaces clean. Wash them properly. Keep raw meats away from prepared foods or ready-to-eat foods. Ensure meat is properly and completely cooked. No part of the meat should remain uncooked. Do not forget to store foods in the refrigerator or freezer to block bacterial growth.

3. Quench Your Thirst With Safe Water Only

So, now you have taken precautions to protect yourself from contaminated food. It is in turn to get protection from contaminated water as well. E. coli bacteria can make you sick through contaminated water. So always check if you are drinking pure water. You can have safe and pure water at home easily, but this should be extra care of while going outside, traveling, or camping. If you are unsure about the purity of water outside, you can use water purification tablets or simply just boil and strain it to protect yourself.

4. Stay Away From Contaminated Water Sources

You can catch E. coli infection not only from contaminated drinking water but also from swimming in contaminated swimming pools, rivers, ponds, or lakes, especially if you accidentally swallow the water. If you are aware of an area with E. coli contamination, avoid using natural water bodies. Do not wash your hands or wash utensils or clothes in the suspected natural water bodies, as this can expose you to E. coli.

5. Do not Use Unpasteurized Products

Always make sure the milk packet that is coming to home is pasteurized. Unpasteurized milk and even juices are most likely to expose you to E. coli infections. Pasteurization is a process that kills harmful germs like E. coli. Therefore, it is essential to look for the pasteurized label on the dairy or juices before buying them. If you are not sure about pasteurization, better not buy them.

‘’Prevention is better than cure,’’ and this quote holds absolutely true for the preventive measures against E. coli bacteria. Remember, for those with weak immunity, such as children, older adults, pregnant women, or immunocompromised individuals, adhering to these safety measures is especially crucial. These measures are simple yet effective. You do not have to buy a lot of things to protect yourself, you just need to be extra cautious in your daily life. By prioritizing your health, you can not only protect yourself but also spread awareness for the well-being of others.