The Bond County Health Department is reminding residents of the importance of proper hand washing and food preparation and handling to avoid E. Coli.
Bond County has seen two cases of E. Coli in the past two-and-a-half months. Bond County Health Department officials report there is no proof that the two cases are linked. The department is working with the Illinois Department of Health in each case.
To prevent the spread of E. Coli and other infections, the Health Department recommends washing your hands thoroughly after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and before preparing or eating food. Proper hand washing is also necessary after contact with animals or their environments. Meat should be cooked thoroughly. Raw milk and unpasteurized dairy products or juices should be avoided. Prevent cross-contamination in food preparation areas by thoroughly washing hands, counters, cutting boards, and utensils after they touch raw meat. Officials also say you should avoid swallowing water when in swimming pools, lakes, ponds, or streams.
See below for additional information on E. Coli and proper hand washing from the Bond County Health Department. For more, call the health department at 664-1442.
