Clipped from: https://www.deccanherald.com/national/is-it-safe-to-consume-poultry-products-during-bird-flu-heres-what-who-said-937033.html
States are taking precautions to curb the spread of the avian influenza which is killing birds across India
Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, the surging cases of avian influenza in some states including Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh have left meat-eaters asking if consuming poultry products is safe. The World Health Organisation (WHO) says it is safe to consume such products.
The global health regulatory body has advised non-vegetarians to take necessary precautions before consuming eggs or meat. These products must be rinsed thoroughly before cooking to ward off any germs on the surface, it said.
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The bird flu has raised concerns in the country as it is transferrable to humans and if not contained, it could turn into an outbreak.
Bird flu is a respiratory disease in birds. The current flu has been caused by the H5N1 virus, which is said to be the deadliest variant but has a low transmission.
All the states, including those that have not detected any case of the flu, are taking preventive measures.
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According to a directive issued by WHO and UN Food and Agriculture Organisation, meat and eggs must be cooked at a temperature of 70 degrees Celsius — the normal cooking temperature — to kill the heat-sensitive virus.
For eggs, it is advisable to purchase only fresh produce and that bought from trusted sources. A runny yolk is an indication that the egg is stale or may be infected, and must be avoided.
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