(Read also: Calls grows for end to plastic bags in stores)

A norovirus outbreak in Washington DC, US,  in 2012, claimed a teenage female soccer team as victims. The stomach problem-inducing virus is highly contagious and investigation results unveiled the culprit: a contaminated shopping bag. A day prior to the incident, a bag containing cookies was brought into a bathroom used by a girl who was already suffering from the virus. The following day, some of the team members consumed the cookies and fell sick 24 hours later.

Kimberly K. Repp, an epidemiologist with the Washington County Department of Health and Human Services in Hillsboro, Oregon who was involved in the investigation, said to webmd.com, “This is the first-ever reported case of transmitting this virus with an inanimate object, basically.”

(Read also: Zika infection present in almost third of world)

Here are measures to take to prevent contamination when using reusable grocery bags and the spread of viruses:

Wash your reusable grocery bag after every use. For bags made of cloth, use detergent and wash properly. If you prefer to use plastic-lined reusable grocery bags, make sure to scrub the inner parts with disinfectant soap or wipes, especially in the seams, and use hot water to wash off residue. Make sure your grocery bags are dry before storing or reusing.

Separate the grocery bags for produce, raw meat and seafood. Ask for fresh meat and seafood to be wrapped in disposable plastic bags before storing inside your reusable one. Use different grocery bags for dry goods.

Store your reusable grocery bags in a cool and dry environment with good air circulation to prevent bacteria from growing. (asw)

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