Maintaining Good Health and Wellness During Memorial Day: A Physician's Advice
As people start gathering for Memorial Day celebrations in the United States, it's natural to be concerned about the spread of bird flu and the coronavirus. With bird flu affecting poultry and cows, is it safe to consume milk and eggs? Are there specific precautions we should take while preparing hamburgers? What other health issues should we be mindful of during the holiday season and the approaching summer?
To help answer these questions, I spoke with CNN's wellness expert, Dr. Leana Wen, who is also an emergency physician and clinical associate professor at George Washington University. She used to be Baltimore's health commissioner.
CNN: In light of the bird flu and new coronavirus variants, should we be doing anything in particular?
Dr. Leana Wen: Although there are new coronavirus variants, the coronavirus activity in the US is currently very low. People should determine their risk of severe illness if they were to contract COVID-19. High-risk individuals, such as the elderly and those with chronic illnesses, should ensure they're up to date with vaccines and have a plan for accessing antiviral treatment. They should also get tested if they experience symptoms, and so should those they have close contact with.
For those who aim to minimize their risk of catching the coronavirus and other respiratory viruses, it's recommended to attend outdoor events rather than indoor ones if possible. When traveling in crowded airports and train stations, wearing fitting N95 or equivalent masks may be beneficial.
Regarding bird flu, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests the risk to Americans is low at the moment. This is due to only two human cases this year, both involving farmworkers with direct contact with infected cattle. Both individuals only experienced mild symptoms, and there has been no human-to-human transmission during this outbreak.
Individuals involved in the poultry, dairy, and cattle industries, as well as those who frequently interact with wild birds and backyard flocks and cows, are encouraged to follow the CDC's guidelines and use personal protective equipment while working with animals. Health care providers should keep an eye out for farmworkers with flu-like symptoms. Other people do not need to adjust their behaviors at this time, and they should not worry about avian flu during Memorial Day events or early summer gatherings.
CNN: Is it safe to continue drinking milk and consuming eggs and meat?
Wen: Indeed, milk and eggs remain safe to eat. The US Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) guidance states that pasteurized milk is secure to drink. Although viral fragments were found in the commercial milk supply, they were not infectious viruses that could cause infections. Pasteurization eliminates viruses, including the influenza virus.
The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has also stated that hamburgers cooked to 145 degrees Fahrenheit do not contain live viruses. The agency advises that cooked eggs and poultry are also safe to consume.
However, it's essential to avoid consuming raw or undercooked meat. Such products may harbor various pathogens, including bacteria like E. coli and salmonella. Raw milk is not safe to drink, as it may also carry these bacteria. One theory for avian flu transmission is through raw milk. So, avoid consuming unpasteurized milk and products made from raw milk.
CNN: How does this knowledge apply to gatherings? Can we eat hamburgers, hot dogs, and enjoy barbecues and buffets?
Wen: Absolutely! Be mindful of general precautions to prevent foodborne illnesses. Cook meat to the recommended internal temperatures. Pay attention to which utensils and containers come in contact with raw meat and keep them separate from clean ones. Store meat in a refrigerator until it's time to cook. Use an insulated cooler with plenty of ice if you have one. Lastly, wash your hands frequently.
CNN: We've discussed infections. Are there other major health issues to consider during the holidays and leading into the summer, such as avoiding heatstroke?
Wen: When temperatures soar outside, we need to be aware of the consequences of extreme heat on health. Heatstroke happens when someone's body temperature reaches 103 degrees Fahrenheit and can no longer effectively cool itself. This is a severe medical condition that can be fatal.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion, which can progress to heatstroke, should be watched for. Those most susceptible to heat-related illnesses include children, the elderly, and people with underlying health issues that affect their body temperature regulation.
Those undergoing hot weather should aim to stay indoors in air-conditioned environments or seek shade if outdoors. They should remain hydrated and seek cool shelter if they start experiencing symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, muscle aches, and exhaustion.
CNN: And let's not forget about skin protection, right?
Wen: Definitely. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. A major risk factor is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. We should all take steps to limit our UV exposure. This includes remaining in the shade, wearing hats, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
During the summer months, when people tend to have more free time, it's important to focus on health. I strongly recommend visiting your doctor and discussing any health issues that you may have. This is the perfect opportunity to make sure you're up to date on cancer screenings and managing chronic conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
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In regards to maintaining overall wellness during Memorial Day celebrations, it's important to prioritize hydration and sun protection to avoid heatstroke and skin damage from UV rays. Additionally, with the summer season approaching, regular doctor visits can help ensure you're up-to-date on cancer screenings and managing chronic conditions.
Given the ongoing concern about bird flu and the coronavirus, high-risk individuals, such as the elderly and those with chronic illnesses, should take additional precautions, including staying updated on vaccines and antiviral treatments, getting tested for symptoms, and wearing fitting masks in crowded areas.
Source: edition.cnn.com
