Prevention and Control of Communicable Diseases - Missouri ...

SALMONELLOSIS PROVIDER
PREVENTION/CONTROL
July 2011
� Regular and thorough handwashing is the best way to prevent the spread
of communicable diseases. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm
running water after using the toilet or changing diapers and before preparing or
eating food. Staff should closely monitor or assist all children, as appropriate,
with handwashing after children have used the bathroom or been diapered.
� Animals can carry Salmonella. Chicks, ducklings, reptiles (e.g., pet turtles,
iguanas, snakes), and amphibians commonly carry Salmonella and are not
recommended for childcare/school settings. Wash your hands after touching
animals.
� Clean and sanitize diapering area and potty chairs after each use and bathroom
toilets, sinks, and toys at least daily and when soiled. (See pgs 35-41)
� Clean and sanitize mouthed objects and surfaces at least daily and when soiled.
(See pgs 35-41)
� Food Safety
- Thoroughly cook all foods that come from animals, especially poultry.
- Store all uncooked meat and poultry in the refrigerator on a shelf lower than
any other foods and keep separate from produce, cooked foods, and
ready-to-eat foods.
- DO NOT serve unpasteurized milk or juices.
- Use pasteurized eggs and milk in food that will not be cooked.
- Wash and sanitize all cutting boards, knives, utensils, or dishes that have
been used for raw meat or poultry before using with uncooked foods, such
as fruits or vegetables, or cooked foods.
- Use a thermometer to make sure correct temperatures are reached when
cooking foods. Check with the local environmental health agency for
appropriate temperatures.
- Restrict students from sharing any communal food items that are brought
from home. In the classroom, children should not serve themselves food
items that are not individually wrapped. The teacher should hand out these
items after washing his/her hands. (This is not intended to discourage
family-style serving in the absence of an outbreak.)
For more information, call Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (MDHSS) at 573-751-6113
or 866-628-9891 (8-5 Monday thru Friday) or call your local health department.
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