FYI: Salmonella

Salmonella are a group of different strains of bacteria that can contaminate almost any food, causing diarrhea, abdominal pain and fever. Scientists are still learning why the microbes are so problematic. One reason is that they have evolved tricks to get around the human immune system.

Foods to stay away from:
Lettuce, chicken, tomatoes, peanut butter and now pistachios.

Our best defenses:

* Don't eat raw or undercooked eggs, poultry or other meat. Pink in the middle? You're at risk.
* Uncooked meats should be kept separate from produce, cooked foods and ready-to-eat foods.
* Hands, cutting boards, counters, knives and other utensils should be washed thoroughly after touching uncooked foods. Hands should be washed before handling food, and between handling different food items.

Another lesser known source of contamination:

Pets. Reptiles, including turtles, are prone to pack salmonella on their skin. Ducklings, birds and chicks can pack it in their intestines and infect their surroundings. Children can be exposed to the bacteria by simply holding, cuddling, or kissing the birds!

Information from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the United States of America. Click here for more.