A recent outbreak of trichinellosis, a rare parasitic disease, has been traced to undercooked bear meat at a gathering in western North Carolina, according to a new report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The outbreak, which occurred last November, affected 10 individuals and highlights the dangers of consuming wild game meat that has not been properly cooked.
Trichinellosis is caused by Trichinella roundworm larvae found in undercooked or raw meat, particularly from wild animals like bears. The CDC emphasized that cooking wild game meat to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) is essential to kill any potential parasites.
The gathering, held in November 2023, involved 34 attendees in western North Carolina. Approximately 65% of participants reported eating bear meat during the event. Of those, 10 individuals developed symptoms consistent with trichinellosis, including facial swelling, muscle aches, and fever. The CDC noted that nine of the patients experienced facial swelling, six had muscle pain, and four developed fevers.
While rare, trichinellosis remains a significant concern, especially in the U.S. where wild game meat, particularly bear meat, is often consumed. The CDC has identified several outbreaks linked to undercooked bear meat in recent years. In fact, between January 2016 and December 2022, the agency reported seven outbreaks of trichinellosis in the U.S., most of which involved bear meat.
Trichinellosis symptoms can appear anywhere from a few days to several weeks after consuming contaminated meat. Common symptoms include gastrointestinal distress such as stomach pain and diarrhea, as well as muscle pain, facial swelling, headache, and fever. Without proper treatment, the condition can lead to serious health complications.
The CDC urges consumers to always cook wild game meat, particularly bear, to a safe internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is free from Trichinella parasites. Freezing bear meat for extended periods can reduce the risk of infection but does not guarantee complete safety. The CDC also advises hunters and home cooks to use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of meat before consumption, as wild game often has a dark appearance that may mask undercooking.
This is not the first instance of trichinellosis linked to undercooked bear meat. A similar outbreak occurred in South Dakota in July 2022, where a family reunion resulted in several people contracting the parasitic infection after consuming bear meat kebabs. Despite freezing the meat for over a month, it was served undercooked, leading to symptoms such as muscle pain, fever, and swelling.
Trichinellosis, though rare, can lead to serious health complications, including muscle inflammation and neurological symptoms. Most people recover with proper treatment, such as antibiotics, though severe cases can require hospitalization.
The CDC continues to monitor outbreaks of trichinellosis and urges the public to take precautions when consuming wild game. In particular, the CDC emphasizes the importance of safe food handling practices when preparing wild meat to prevent future infections.
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