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Trichinosis

Trichinosis
QuestionAnswer
Example

Diseased animal

Can I still use the animal Yes - take safety precautions
Commonly infected wildlife Bears, Mountain Lions
Is this animal infected
  • Wild animals rarely show signs of disease
  • Always assume mountain lion and bear meat is infected
Can I get it Yes
  • By eating undercooked mountain lion or bear meat infected with the Trichinella worm
  • You cannot get it from an infected person
How bad can it get

Risk - danger

No symptoms or mild symptoms most common; can be fatal

How can I protect myself and others
  • DO NOT EAT RAW MEAT
  • Kill the worms!
    • Cook meat thoroughly
    • Heat to at least to 165°F
  • Worms are not killed by smoking, microwaving, freezing, curing or drying
Symptoms in humans
  • Variable, but may include:
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Diarrhea
    • Fever
    • Stomach pain
    • Fatigue
    • Aching joints
    • Eye swelling
    • Muscle pain
  • May be FATAL if worms interfere with the heart, diaphragm, lungs or brain
  • Consult with your doctor if you have any of the above symptoms for up to eight weeks after eating mountain lion or wild bear meat
Is it safe for pets

Not Raw - Cook first

What causes it
  • A roundworm called Trichinella found in muscles of infected animals