With Cambodian people set to mark the 15-day Pchum Ben festival from September 11-26, the Ministry of Health advised the public, private services and foreigners residing in Cambodia to take all necessary measures to prevent Covid-19 transmission or food poisoning.

According to the September 10 instruction, for the safety of all family members, the public must continue to excise increased caution, and practice the 3 dos and don'ts.

To avoid food poisoning, the instructions warned hygiene was important. People should always wash their hands with soap and water before preparing food. They should keep raw and cooked foods separate and cook them thoroughly through, particularly meats, poultry, eggs and seafood. When purchasing prepared food from a market or on the street, they should make sure it is safe to eat.

“Food should be stored at a safe temperature (less than 5 degrees Celsius or above 60), or cooked one meal at a time, with clean water and fresh ingredients. Chemicals should not be added to food,” it said.

The ministry advised authorities in provinces, districts, towns and communes to assign staff to ensure food safety measures are being employed, particularly at large gathering places, such as pagodas.