Health officials have warned about the rare illness trichinellosis caused by eating undercooked meat from wild game animals. Six family members from Arizona, Minnesota, and South Dakota fell ill after consuming undercooked black bear meat. Adequate cooking is crucial to kill the parasites causing trichinellosis.
Key Points
Trichinellosis is caused by a parasitic worm called Trichinella, primarily associated with eating raw and undercooked meats
Symptoms of trichinellosis include gastrointestinal issues, muscle and joint pain, and swelling around the eyes
Prevention includes cooking wild game meat to an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit and avoiding cross-contamination
Pros
Health officials are raising awareness about the risks of consuming undercooked meat from wild game animals
Providing information on the rare illness trichinellosis and its symptoms
Highlighting the importance of adequate cooking to prevent trichinellosis
Cons
Six family members fell ill after consuming undercooked black bear meat, emphasizing the severity of trichinellosis
Trichinellosis can cause severe symptoms and complications if not treated properly