Increase in zoonoses
The number of reported cases of diseases transmissible from animals to humans and vice versa have increased. This is reported by the Federal Office for Food Safety (FSVO). Some diseases can be partially prevented with simple measures in the kitchen.
Humans can become infected with so-called zoonotic pathogens through contact with infected animals or through consumption of contaminated food of animal origin. In the report prepared annually of the Federal Office for Food Safety (FSVO), the most common zoonoses are listed in summary form.
Selected zoonoses and their prevention
For example, after a decline in some diseases, the number of cases associated with zoonotic pathogens has increased. These had even reached the pre-pandemic level again. The most frequently recorded zoonosis last year was the diarrheal disease campylobacteriosis with 7000 cases. Humans are usually infected via contaminated or underheated food. Poultry meat remains the largest source of infection. Salmonellosis, the second most common zoonosis, recorded 1500 cases. Mostly eggs and meat, salads or raw vegetables are affected. However, the FSVO warns that direct infection via animals and humans is also possible.
The FSVO lists a number of measures that can be used to contain diseases associated with zoonoses. In the food industry, contamination should be prevented at all levels, e.g. by controlling maximum levels. However, consumers can protect themselves with simple measures.
- Washing Thoroughly wash your hands, work surface and kitchen utensils with soap or detergent before and after preparing food.
- Always fry meat Completely through: Hamburgers as well as poultry meat must not have any red spots left in the core.
- Separate Always separate raw foods from cooked foods. Avoid direct contact of raw meat, poultry, fish and raw seafood with other foods.
Source: BLV
