As the place where food is prepped, cooked, and served, the kitchen is one of the most important spots in the house.

While we take many precautions to keep our kitchens and the food we eat clean and safe such as disinfecting surfaces and washing hands, there are still some kitchen infections that can find their way into our homes and cause serious health problems. Here are the biggest kitchen infections to be aware of.

Salmoneleosis

Salmonella is a bacterial infection that contaminates food and can cause severe gastroenteritis, fever, and headaches. Raw or undercooked eggs, unpasteurized milk, and undercooked or contaminated meat are common sources of the bacteria.

It is vital to wash hands, surfaces, and utensils in after coming into contact with any of these items. Keep in mind that soaps and sanitizers may not kill salmonella since the bacteria can be resistant and tough to eliminate.

Listeriosis

Listeriosis is a bacterial infection caused by the consumption of contaminated food. It can cause flu-like symptoms, including fever and muscle aches.

Foods that could become contaminated include undercooked meat and poultry, unpasteurized dairy products, and deli meats. The foods can get contaminated during production or by storing it in the fridge for too long. To protect your kitchen, don’t leave cooked food sitting out at room temperature for an extended period.

Make sure to clean your fridge regularly and avoid eating raw or undercooked foods.

E. coli

E. coli is a bacterial infection that can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, and vomiting. Contaminated water is a common source of E. coli, but it can also be found in undercooked meats, raw milk, and unwashed fresh fruits and vegetables.

Infected individuals can spread the bacteria by not washing their hands properly. To avoid E. coli infections, ensure that your kitchen is clean and disinfected. Always wash fresh fruits and vegetables under running water and cook meat thoroughly.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a viral infection that attacks the liver due to contaminated food and water. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, nausea, and loss of appetite. The virus can survive on surfaces for weeks after it contaminates them.

This means that if one person isn’t careful and touches a contaminated surface in your kitchen, you could become infected as well. It’s essential to wash produce before consumption and practice good personal hygiene after using the toilet or changing diapers.

Staphylococcus

Staphylococcus is a group of bacteria that can cause a wide range of infections, from mild skin conditions to severe respiratory problems. It’s one of the most common kitchen infections, and it can be dangerous.

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The bacteria grow on many foods and can thrive in warm, moist environments. To prevent the spread of staphylococcus, clean surfaces regularly with soap and water, dry them, and use separate cutting boards for meats, fruits, and vegetables.

Norovirus

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that can cause severe nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It usually comes from contaminated food or water and can spread quickly through kitchens and other shared spaces.

To prevent the spread of the virus, avoid contact with contaminated surfaces and sanitize all utensils and surfaces regularly. Also, make sure to stay home if you’re ill and wash your hands thoroughly to avoid spreading the virus.

Campylobacteriosis

Campylobacteriosis is a bacterial infection that can cause diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain. Raw and undercooked meats, especially poultry, are the primary culprits of the bacteria.

Keeping a clean kitchen and washing your hands after handling raw meat can help prevent contamination. Ensuring that you cook meat at a sufficient temperature will eliminate any bacteria left on the surface.

Botulism

Botulism is a rare but extremely severe bacterial infection that can cause paralysis and death. It’s primarily found in home-canned foods, especially those with a low acidity level.

The infection is severe and can occur even if the food looks and tastes normal. The best way to prevent botulism infection is to avoid home-canned foods. If you can it yourself, be sure to follow all the guidelines for safe canning.

Clostridium perfringens

Clostridium perfringens is a bacterial infection found in raw meats and poultry. Symptoms include diarrhea, cramps, and nausea. It is usually caused by improper storage of food, like leaving it out at room temperature for extended periods.

Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold to avoid contamination and reduce the risk of C. perfringens infection.

Mold Infections

Mold infections are dangerous fungal infections that can cause respiratory problems, skin irritations, and headaches. Mold is usually found in damp, dark spaces, like the kitchen. Combat mold by keeping your kitchen dry and free of moisture.

Remove any visible mold with bleach or other mold-killing agents and properly ventilate your kitchen to reduce the risk of mold infection.