Latest news with #Giardia
Time of India
2 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Infection risk: Hidden dangers of not rinsing vegetables and fruits before use
So, you just picked up a shiny apple from your grocery haul, gave it a quick polish on your t-shirt, and took a big bite. Harmless, right? Not quite. That innocent-looking apple could be carrying an invisible army of germs—and if you're not rinsing your fruits and veggies properly, you might be inviting a stomach disaster or worse. We get it. Washing produce sometimes feels like an extra chore, especially when you're hungry or in a hurry. But skipping that rinse could land you in bed with a fever, cramps, or a stomach bug you really don't want to deal with. Here's why those few extra seconds under the tap are totally worth it. What's really lurking on that lettuce? Let's start with the basics. Fruits and vegetables go through a lot before they end up in your fridge. They're grown in open fields, exposed to dirt, dust, animal feces, pesticides, and sometimes even sewage-contaminated water. On top of that, they're handled by farm workers, packed into crates, shipped across states or countries, and touched by multiple hands in grocery stores or local markets. By the time that spinach bag or mango gets to your plate, it could be carrying: Bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria Parasites such as Giardia or Cyclospora Chemical residues from pesticides Fungal spores and mold And no, peeling or cooking doesn't always kill everything—especially if the bacteria has already seeped inside. Real-life horror stories This isn't just a 'better safe than sorry' situation. There have been actual outbreaks linked to contaminated produce. A 2011 Listeria outbreak from cantaloupes in the U.S. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 3 to 5 BHK Premium Apartments starts at ₹3.22Cr+ Goodwill Wisteria Learn More Undo led to over 30 deaths. In another case, E. coli from romaine lettuce hospitalized dozens. It's not just about minor tummy trouble—these infections can be life-threatening, especially for kids, pregnant women, the elderly, or people with weak immune systems. Why just 'looking clean' doesn't count Let's debunk a common myth: If it looks clean, it's safe. Wrong. Germs and chemicals aren't always visible. That gleaming apple? It could still be coated with invisible pesticide residue or tiny bacteria just waiting to throw your digestive system into chaos. Wiping with a cloth or just a splash of water isn't enough either. Most experts agree that a thorough rinse under running water (and a bit of scrubbing where needed) is the best bet. But I buy organic – Am I safe? Not entirely. While organic produce might skip the chemical pesticides, it's still grown in soil, handled by people, and transported just like non-organic goods. Plus, organic farms often use natural fertilizers—like manure—which come with their own bacterial risks. So yes, even organic fruits and veggies need a wash. The risky bunch: Produce you really shouldn't skip Some fruits and veggies are at higher risk than others. Here are the ones that deserve extra attention: Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and lettuce (they trap dirt easily) Berries (fragile but often sprayed and handled a lot) Apples, pears, and peaches (often coated in wax or pesticide residue) Melons (you might not eat the rind, but cutting through it drags germs in) Grapes and cherry tomatoes (multiple contact points = more germs) Even pre-washed or 'ready to eat' salads aren't totally safe. Give them a rinse anyway—better safe than a midnight trip to the bathroom. So… how should you actually wash produce? Good news: It's not rocket science. Here's how to make sure you're not munching on microbes: Skip the soap – Seriously. Dish soap or bleach can leave harmful residues and make things worse. Use clean, running water – Hold each fruit or veg under the tap and rub gently with your hands. Use a brush or cloth – For thick-skinned produce like potatoes, carrots, or cucumbers. Dry with a paper towel – It helps remove lingering bacteria. Wash just before eating – Washing too early can lead to mold growth in storage. You don't need fancy fruit sprays or vinegar soaks—just water and a bit of attention go a long way. What about peeling? Peeling helps, yes, but it's not a shortcut to skip rinsing. The outside of a banana or an orange might seem like it doesn't matter, but when you peel it with your hands, whatever was on the skin gets transferred to the fruit inside. So yep, wash it all—even stuff with a thick peel. Rinse it, don't risk it Look, no one wants to turn every meal into a science experiment or go overboard with paranoia. But when the solution is literally as simple as holding something under the tap for 10 seconds, it's hard to justify skipping it. Unwashed produce isn't just dirty—it can actually be dangerous. And while your body's pretty good at handling small exposures, it's always smarter to reduce your risk—especially when the alternative could be days of cramps, vomiting, or worse. So the next time you grab a bunch of grapes, a crisp apple, or some juicy strawberries—give them a quick rinse first. Your gut will thank you later. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Daily Record
3 days ago
- Health
- Daily Record
How often should you clean your dog's toys? Owners weigh in on pet care practices
A dog owner has sparked a debate on Reddit about how often people clean their dog's toys after they rarely do so It can be difficult to resist treating our pets to new toys, especially when they seem to destroy them in a matter of seconds. However, many owners are unaware of how frequently they should be cleaning their pet's toys, or the potential consequences of neglecting this task altogether. This topic recently sparked a discussion on Reddit, with one user asking: "Do you clean the toys regularly? If so, how do you clean a plush squeaky without damaging it? Do you retire toys if not broken?" One user replied: "Erm I don't. Most of them don't last long enough to need a wash to be honest." Another user shared their approach, saying: "I wash them after a guest dog has left. For squeaky plushies, I put them in a large zipped pillow cover or large lingerie bag and run the washer on gentle cycle." A different user admitted: "Eh never? Her toys are indoors only so they don't get very gross. The only time I washed them in the bathtub was due to an ant infestation." Another Reddit user explained their method: "For fabric toys, I've always just thrown them in the wash as needed with a couple extra rinse cycles to make sure all of the detergent is out and then into the dryer on low heat," reports the Express. They added: "How often depends on the toy and the dirtiness. One of his toys can get washed as much as once a week, others haven't been washed yet." On the topic of non-fabric toys, one individual shared: "For rubber toys I'll throw them in the top rack in the dishwasher and hope for the best. I haven't had any melted toys yet, so knock on wood." Preventive Vet cautions that "dog toys can be harbouring anything from fungus to mould to mildew to staph bacteria", suggesting a potential risk of contamination with faecal matter, which may contain harmful pathogens such as Giardia, or even Parvovirus or Distemper if your dog carries their toys on walks. The statement discloses: "Since dog toys are among the top 10 germiest items in the home per an NSF International (National Sanitation Foundation) study, it is a good idea to give them a good cleaning at least once a month. But in an ideal world, weekly cleaning is better." Toys that withstand vigorous play and are covered in slobber, dirt, and other unknown substances should ideally be cleaned daily, particularly those that have been taken outside the confines of your home and garden. However, for dogs that consume a raw diet and enjoy playing with their toys immediately after meals, owners are advised to clean these toys promptly after each play session. The statement further clarifies: "Studies indicate that these diets can contain Salmonella and Listeria, which are harmful to people. If your dog loves to play with their toys right after a meal, they can be contaminated with these bacteria. "If you handle these toys and touch your mouth, you are at risk of accidental ingestion. Use caution by always washing these toys immediately after your dog has eaten and then played with them."
Daily Record
4 days ago
- Health
- Daily Record
North Lanarkshire Council receives fifth-highest number of dog fouling complaints in UK according to new research
North Lanarkshire Council comes in fifth with 1,725 complaints (51 complaints per 10,000 people) the other Scottish council in the top 10, but not the only other one - it has over six times as many complaints as Borders Council, which received 277 complaints. North Lanarkshire Council received the fifth-highest number of dog fouling complaints in the UK according to new research. That's according to the experts at the London rubbish removal company Rainbow Rubbish, which sought to uncover the UK councils that received the most dog poo complaints, utilising existing FOI data. They also partnered with a pet expert, highlighting the hazardous effects dog waste can have on others and its risks to public safety. North Lanarkshire Council comes in fifth with 1,725 complaints (51 complaints per 10,000 people) the other Scottish council in the top 10, but not the only other one - it has over six times as many complaints as Borders Council, which received 277 complaints. Pet expert Josh Wiesenfeld commented on the hazardous effects dog fouling has to other dogs as well as highlighting its risks to public safety and urban cleanliness. He said: 'Dog faeces poses a health risk to other dogs, but also to humans and the overall environment due to the transmission of parasites and infectious disease pathogens. 'Dog faeces can also pass on roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, Giardia, and coccidia—most of which are zoonotic, or capable of infecting people as well. 'Toxocara canis, a common roundworm, can cause toxocariasis in people, which can lead to loss of eyesight, organ damage, or neurological issues, particularly among kids playing in infected parks or yards. 'The danger is just as real for other canines. Parasites are caught by touching contaminated faeces or soil. Others, like parvovirus—a very contagious and generally lethal virus—can survive for months in the environment and are eliminated in the stools of the infected dog. 'Even a seemingly low amount of uncollected faeces can harbour millions of bacteria and viruses, causing outbreaks in local dog populations. In shared spaces such as parks or sidewalks, this can significantly increase community-wide public health issues.' Earlier this year, pupils at Wishaw Academy Primary School began running a campaign to highlight the problem and encourage dog owners to be responsible. Speaking at the time, the school's headteacher Michelle Beadie said: 'Many children and parents were concerned about dog fouling around the entrances to the school. 'As a result, the Rights Respecting Schools Steering Group decided to take full advantage of article 12 of the United Nations Charter on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and use their voices to campaign, tackle this problem and effect change. 'Pupils contacted decision-makers within North Lanarkshire Council, including elected members, and have been involved in a leaflet drop in the local neighbourhood. They have also raised awareness of the problem by designing their own posters for display around the school campus and local public buildings. 'This initiative not only promotes a cleaner, safer environment for our pupils but also instils a sense of respect and responsibility. By encouraging our children to speak out, and by working together with the local community, we can ensure that our pathways and grounds remain welcoming and enjoyable for everyone.'
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Yahoo
Injured dog recovering after attack at Narragansett ball field
NARRAGANSETT, R.I. (WPRI) — The Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RISPCA) is asking for the public's support as its staff slowly nurses an injured Belgian Malinois dog back to health. Liberty was one of three dogs brought to the RISPCA from a Narragansett shopping plaza Wednesday afternoon. Investigators believe her former owner was traveling with Liberty and 13 other dogs in his SUV from New York to Maine when he pulled over to stop them from fighting. 'These are large dogs and it was a small SUV,' RISPCA President Wayne Kezirian told 12 News Wednesday. 'This person was literally covered in dogs.' The 14 dogs inside the man's vehicle escaped as soon as he opened the door, according to the RISPCA, with at least three of them running into the nearby Marshalls & HomeGoods store. Kezirian said somehow, the man was able to round up the dogs and drive them to a nearby little league field so each one could be removed from the car in an enclosed space. RISPCA: 14 dogs ran loose in Narragansett shopping plaza The dogs bolted from the car again, but this time began attacking Liberty in the middle of the field. Kezirian said the dogs had to be pepper sprayed in order to be safely separated. Liberty was rushed to the RISPCA's Animal Health Center, where veterinarians began treating and bandaging the deep bite wounds that covered her body. The RISPCA Liberty has also tested positive for Giardia, which is an intestinal parasite that causes diarrhea, weight loss and other digestive issues. Veterinarians are now monitoring Liberty's condition very closely. The other two dogs in the RISPCA's care were not injured, but are also 'incredibly fearful and terrified.' 'These dogs need a lot of medical care, food, and most of all, love,' the RISPCA wrote in a social media post Thursday. Anyone interested in donating to Liberty's care can do so online. Her medical expenses will be paid for through the RISPCA's Tails of Hope fund, which is designated for 'shelter animals in need of a little extra love to make them adoptable.' Liberty's former owner is not facing charges at this time since he was cooperative. Download the and apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch or with the new . Follow us on social media: Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
