As people are celebrating the Thanksgiving holiday, there are important reminders to help prevent foodborne illnesses.

Dallas County Health Department Public Information Officer Ann Cochran says during this time of the year people should remember there is a bacterial disease in salmonella that is linked to Thanksgiving.

“Uncooked poultry is a common source of salmonella. We recommend that before you get your thawing turkey out of the refrigerator, get out your spray bottle of cleaner that contains bleach, get out your paper towels and a waste basket. Try to contain the uncooked turkey and the juices to a small area.”

Cochran tells Raccoon Valley Radio as soon as people get their turkey into the oven they should be cleaning the surfaces including the faucet handles of the sink, counters and any other places that came in contact with the uncooked turkey to prevent cross contamination.