In an alarming turn of events, a South Dakota family gathering in 2022 led to six people contracting trichinellosis, a parasitic zoonotic disease, after consuming black bear meat. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a comprehensive report this week detailing the outbreak, underscoring the critical importance of proper food preparation, particularly when dealing with wild game meats.
The Incident Unfolds
In July 2022, a 29-year-old patient was hospitalized in Minnesota with severe symptoms including fever, muscle aches, periorbital edema (eye swelling), and eosinophilia (elevated levels of a type of white blood cell). These symptoms led to the suspicion of trichinellosis. The patient’s condition prompted an investigation by the Minnesota health department.
The CDC’s report reveals that a week before the symptoms appeared, the patient and eight other individuals shared a meal in South Dakota. The meal included black bear meat that had been frozen for 45 days before being grilled and served rare. The meal also included vegetables that were cooked alongside the meat. This combination led to six confirmed cases of trichinellosis, with two of the cases involving individuals who had only consumed the contaminated vegetables.
Understanding Trichinellosis
Trichinellosis, also known as trichinosis, is caused by the larvae of Trichinella, a type of roundworm. The infection typically results from consuming undercooked or raw meat contaminated with Trichinella larvae. While the disease is rare in the United States, it is most commonly associated with the consumption of wild game, such as bear, wild boar, or walrus.
The CDC’s molecular testing confirmed that the larvae in the bear meat were Trichinella nativa, a freeze-resistant species. This finding is significant because it highlights the parasite’s resilience, even after prolonged freezing. The larvae remained viable in the household freezer for over 15 weeks, emphasizing that freezing alone is not a reliable method to kill these parasites.
The Gathering and Its Aftermath
The CDC report provides a detailed account of the family gathering that led to the outbreak. Six days before the initial patient’s symptoms appeared, he and his extended family, comprising members from Arizona, Minnesota, and South Dakota, gathered in South Dakota. During this time, they consumed the black bear meat, which had been harvested in northern Saskatchewan, Canada, in May 2022.
Initially, the meat was inadvertently served rare. The dark color of the bear meat made it difficult for the family to visually determine its doneness. Upon realizing that the meat was undercooked, they attempted to recook it before serving it again. However, the initial exposure had already occurred, leading to the subsequent infections.
Medical Response and Recovery
Three of the six symptomatic individuals were hospitalized due to the severity of their symptoms. They received trichinellosis-directed treatment with albendazole, an antiparasitic medication effective against various worm infections. The other three symptomatic individuals recovered with supportive care alone and did not require specific treatment for trichinellosis.
The CDC’s report underscores the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. The initial patient and two others sought medical care multiple times before receiving the correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment. This delay highlights the challenges in diagnosing trichinellosis, a disease that, despite being rare, requires awareness among healthcare providers, especially in regions where wild game consumption is common.
Broader Implications and Prevention
This outbreak is a stark reminder of the risks associated with consuming undercooked wild game meat. The CDC emphasizes that cooking meat to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) is the only reliable method to kill Trichinella parasites. Cross-contamination is another critical concern; infected meat can contaminate other foods, surfaces, and utensils, leading to further spread of the infection.
The CDC’s data shows that trichinellosis is rare in the U.S., with most cases linked to wild game consumption. From January 2016 to December 2022, the CDC reported seven trichinellosis outbreaks in the U.S., involving 35 probable and confirmed cases. These statistics highlight the need for continued public education on safe meat handling and preparation practices.
Conclusion
The 2022 trichinellosis outbreak in South Dakota serves as a critical lesson in food safety, particularly concerning wild game. The resilience of Trichinella nativa, even after prolonged freezing, underscores the importance of thorough cooking and vigilance to prevent similar incidents.
As hunting and consuming wild game remain popular activities, educating the public on proper food safety practices is essential to prevent future outbreaks.
The information has been sourced from the full CDC report.
This incident not only highlights the dangers of improper food preparation but also serves as a call to action for better awareness and education on the risks associated with consuming wild game.
By adhering to recommended cooking practices and being aware of the potential risks, such outbreaks can be prevented, ensuring the safety and health of those who enjoy hunting and consuming wild game.
