A barbecue event in North Carolina led to some attendees falling seriously ill after consuming bear meat.
A recent report from the CDC has shed light on this alarming incident, revealing that a parasitic infection may be to blame.
Symptoms Emerge After the Event
In November 2023, ten people reported a range of unsettling symptoms, including fever, facial swelling, and muscle aches.
These individuals started feeling unwell about three weeks after indulging in the barbecue, where they consumed undercooked bear meat.
The group included attendees of various ages, with the youngest being just 10 years old.
Understanding the Parasitic Infection
Health officials from the North Carolina Division of Public Health identified the symptoms as indicative of trichinellosis, a rare parasitic infection that typically occurs only about 15 times a year in the United States.
Also known as trichinosis, this infection is caused by the Trichinella roundworms, which are commonly found in animals like bears, cougars, walruses, foxes, wild boars, and domestic pigs.
How Humans Contract Trichinellosis
Humans can become infected with trichinellosis by eating raw or undercooked meat containing the larvae of these parasites.
Once ingested, the larvae grow in the intestines, producing more larvae that enter the bloodstream and can travel to various parts of the body, ultimately embedding themselves in muscle tissue.
Due to the incubation period, it can take several weeks before infected individuals notice any symptoms.
The CDC report indicated that most patients experienced symptoms after about 21 days.
Who Was Affected?
Among the barbecue attendees who became ill, the average age was 17, with cases spanning from ages 10 to 40.
Out of the ten suspected cases, nine individuals reported facial swelling, six experienced muscle aches, and four had a fever.
While many mild cases may resolve on their own, severe cases of trichinellosis can lead to serious complications, including damage to the lungs and heart.
Statistically, one in 200 patients with severe cases may not survive, according to the CDC.
Treatment and Prevention
Fortunately, trichinellosis can be treated with anti-parasitic medications, although the cost for a treatment course can be as high as $100.
There remains uncertainty regarding the cooking temperature of the contaminated meat and its source.
However, the CDC has emphasized that cooking game meat to at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit is essential to effectively kill trichinella parasites.
Moving Forward
With the CDC’s findings highlighting the risks associated with consuming undercooked wild game, it’s crucial for future barbecue events to prioritize food safety.
Ensuring that all meats are thoroughly cooked can help prevent such incidents and protect public health.