Food, Water, & Air Safety Questions

Food Supply and Safety

There is no evidence that properly cooked poultry can be a source of human infection for avian influenza viruses. 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.

Find answers to frequently asked questions about food safety by following the links below.

• How can Faith-Based and Community-Based Organizations (FBCOs) help to ensure that people have food and water during an influenza pandemic?
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• Is there a risk for becoming infected with avian influenza by eating poultry?
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• Is it safe to eat raw eggs?
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• Is there a risk in handling bird products that come from countries experiencing outbreaks of avian influenza A (H5N1)?
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• What is the government doing to protect the U.S. food supply from avian influenza?

Water & Air Safety

While there are no documented human cases of avian influenza caused by exposure to highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza-contaminated water or air, it is important to be aware of the potential for such exposure.

Find answers to frequently asked questions about water and air safety by following the links below.

• Can the avian influenza contaminate water sources?
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• Can the avian influenza contaminate air or water and what disposal options are recommended?