Trichinella
 
Frequently Asked Question
   
   
What is Trichinellosis?
 

Trichinellosis, also called trichinosis, is caused by eating raw or undercooked pork infected with the larvae of a species of worm called Trichinella. Infection occurs worldwide, but is most common in areas where raw or undercooked pork, such as ham or sausage, is eaten.

   

What are the symptoms of a trichinellosis infection?
 

Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, fatigue, fever, and abdominal discomfort are the first symptoms of trichinellosis. Headaches, fevers, chills, cough, eye swelling, aching joints and muscle pains, itchy skin, diarrhea, or constipation follow the first symptoms. If the infection is heavy, patients may experience difficulty coordinating movements, and have heart and breathing problems. In severe cases, death can occur.

For mild to moderate infections, most symptoms subside within a few months. Fatigue, weakness, and diarrhea may last for months.

   
How soon after infection will symptoms appear?
 

Abdominal symptoms can occur 1-2 days after infection. Further symptoms usually start 2-8 weeks after eating contaminated meat. Symptoms may range from very mild to severe and relate to the number of infectious worms consumed in meat. Often, mild cases of trichinellosis are never specifically diagnosed and are assumed to be the flu or other common illnesses.

   
   

How does infection occur in humans and animals?
 

When a human or animal eats meat that contains infective Trichinella cysts, the acid in the stomach dissolves the hard covering of the cyst and releases the worms. The worms pass into the small intestine and, in 1-2 days, become mature. After mating, adult females lay eggs. Eggs develop into immature worms, travel through the arteries, and are transported to muscles. Within the muscles, the worms curl into a ball and encyst (become enclosed in a capsule). Infection occurs when these encysted worms are consumed in meat.

   

Am I at risk for trichinellosis?
 

If you eat raw or undercooked meats, particularly pork,you are at risk for trichinellosis.

   

Can I spread trichinellosis to others?
 

No. Infection can only occur by eating raw or undercooked meat containing Trichinella worms.

   

What should I do if I think I have trichinellosis?
 

See your Doctor who can order tests and treat symptoms of trichinellosis infection. If you have eaten raw or undercooked meat, you should tell your health care provider.

   

How is trichinellosis infection diagnosed?
 

A blood test or muscle biopsy can show if you have trichinellosis.

   
   

How can I prevent trichinellosis?
 

  • Cook meat products thoroughly until the juices run clear or to an internal temperature of 75 o C.

  • Clean meat grinders thoroughly if you prepare your own ground meats.