Thailand's first human case since a cluster of nine of them last winter was an 18-year-old man who died on Sept. 8 after handling diseased poultry.

Follow basic safety guidelines when handling raw meat or poultry.

Learn how to handle raw meat and poultry and prevent salmonella, with these food safety tips.

Always exercise care when handling raw eggs, meats and poultry.

Experts also offer these suggestions for properly handling poultry: * Don't leave a fresh bird unrefrigerated more than 30 minutes; keep it iced.

They include people with weak immune systems and those who handle fish, meat, poultry, or soil without using gloves.

Here are some other tips: * Wash hands thoroughly before handling poultry and eggs.

Last month the Department of Agriculture proposed legislation to improve safety standards for packing plants that handle raw meat and poultry.

After handling raw meat, poultry, and fish, wash your hands well with soap and water before you touch any other food.

Good hand washing is important especially when handling eggs and poultry.