A member asked:

Is novel coronavirus anything like a stomach bug? do you have to boil or cook all foods (like fruits, vegetables, and meats) to be safe?

3 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
Dr. Hunter Handsfield answered

Specializes in Infectious Disease

Probably not: The novel coronavirus (nCoV) probably is not transmitted on food. So far, it appears to be transmitted primarily through respiratory droplets (via coughing or sneezing) - more like influenza and colds than food-borne illnesses. This is true for other coronaviruses, and nCoV is unlikely to be different. But stay tuned: it will take weeks or months to understand the details of transmission risk.

Answered 4/25/2022

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Dr. Stuart Hickerson answered

Specializes in Family Medicine

No : Cleaning surfaces and hands frequently help prevention of infection. Specific heating of foods not necessary. Other recommendations include wearing a mask and isolation if sick.

Answered 4/25/2022

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Dr. Deborah Ungerleider answered

Specializes in Pediatrics

No, COVID-19 is not transmitted through foods. The only way that could theoretically occur is if someone who has COVID-19 coughed or spit directly on the food and another person ingested that food almost immediately. Of course any foods that are supposed to be cooked prior to eating them, should be, unrelated to COVID-19.

Answered 4/25/2022

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