In the U.S., laws on feeding practices and the inspection of domestic food animals have largely eliminated tapeworms. Avoiding raw meat and cooking meat well enough (to greater than 140 degrees F for 5 minutes) will prevent taenia infection. Freezing meats to -4 degrees F for 24 hours also kills tapeworm eggs. Good hygiene and hand washing after using the toilet will prevent self-infection in a person who is already infected with tapeworms.