A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has revealed a concerning outbreak of trichinosis, likely stemming from the consumption of undercooked bear meat at a gathering in western North Carolina. Trichinosis is caused by ingesting the larvae of the Trichinella parasite, commonly found in wild game, and can lead to a host of serious health issues.

The North Carolina Division of Public Health first identified this situation on November 29, 2023, when they received a report about a person experiencing flu-like symptoms and facial swelling—classic indicators of trichinosis. Further investigations revealed that this individual had attended an event earlier in the month where undercooked bear meat was served—meat that had not reached the safe cooking temperature of 165°F (74°C) necessary to kill Trichinella larvae.

Public health officials surveyed 34 participants from the gathering, discovering that 22 (approximately 65%) consumed the bear meat. Alarmingly, 10 attendees experienced severe symptoms consistent with trichinosis, including nine cases of facial swelling, six with muscle aches, and four with fevers. Symptoms manifested between seven to 26 days post-consumption, with a median onset of 21 days.

The patients were classified as “probable” cases due to the challenges in confirming the diagnosis through blood tests, as many did not return for follow-up testing after receiving the antiparasitic medication albendazole. Public health officials faced additional difficulties as there were no leftovers of the bear meat for testing, and the affected individuals were mostly young—ages ranging from 10 to 40, with a significant number being teenagers who often struggle with follow-up appointments.

Trichinosis can lead to severe complications if left untreated, particularly if a large number of larvae invade the body. Initial symptoms might be mild, but can escalate to include diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting as the larvae mature in the intestines. As the adults produce larvae that enter the bloodstream, they can travel to muscles and other tissues, potentially causing painful muscle inflammation and a range of severe symptoms including fever, joint aches, and serious complications that can affect the heart, lungs, or brain.

With the rare possibility of fatal outcomes (approximately 0.2% of cases), healthcare experts emphasize the importance of preventing trichinosis through safe food handling and cooking practices. It’s crucial to thoroughly cook wild game to the recommended temperature and to maintain hygiene while preparing meat products.

To ensure safety, it’s advised to avoid consuming raw or undercooked meat from wild animals, including bear, boar, fox, and others. Always use a meat thermometer for accurate temperature readings, and remember that traditional preservation methods like smoking or pickling may not effectively eliminate Trichinella larvae.

As the North Carolina health authorities continue their investigation, they urge the public to stay informed and vigilant when it comes to wild game consumption to avoid similar outbreaks in the future.