Is there a risk for becoming infected with avian influenza by eating poultry?

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Answer:

There is no evidence that properly cooked poultry can be a source of infection for avian influenza viruses. Furthermore, the likelihood of infected poultry entering the U.S. food supply is extremely low due to import restrictions, extensive avian influenza testing programs, and federal inspection programs. Even if it did, properly prepared and cooked poultry is safe to eat. Cooking poultry to an internal temperature of 165 ˚F kills the avian influenza virus as it does other bacteria and viruses.

While most human illnesses have resulted from direct contact with sick or dead birds, a small number have resulted from eating raw poultry or poultry products so proper cooking is important if there is a concern that the avian influenza virus might be present. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) advises that cooking poultry to the proper temperature and preventing cross-contamination between raw and cooked food is the key to food safety. Consumers are reminded to:

• Wash hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food.

• Prevent cross-contamination by keeping raw poultry, meat, and fish and their juices away from other foods.

• After cutting raw meat, wash cutting board, knife, and countertops with hot, soapy water.

• Sanitize cutting boards by using a solution of 1 teaspoon chlorine bleach in 1 quart of water; and

• Use a food thermometer to ensure poultry has reached the safe internal temperature of at least 165 °F to kill food borne germs that might be present, including the avian influenza virus.

For more information about avian influenza and food safety, call the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline - 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854), TTY: 1-800 256-7072 (available in English and Spanish). Online answers are provided at www.fsis.usda.gov/Food_Safety_Education/Ask_Karen/index.asp  by clicking on “Ask Karen.”

 Play ( ► ) the video below for additional information. (Captioned Video | Transcript of Video)

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Last Updated: 04/03/2007