Trichinosis is a disease that is caused by eating undercooked meat, typically pork or wild game. The illness is caused by a parasite called Trichinella, which can live in the muscles of animals. When humans eat infected meat, the larvae of the parasite are released in their intestines. After a few days, the larvae mature into adult worms that migrate to various parts of the body, including the muscles.
Symptoms of trichinosis can include fever, muscle pain, and swelling around the eyes. Other symptoms may include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fatigue. Symptoms usually appear within one to two weeks after eating infected meat.
Treatment for trichinosis typically involves a prescription medication to kill the adult worms. Pain relievers may also be prescribed to help with muscle pain. In most cases, people recover fully from trichinosis within several months.
To prevent trichinosis, it is important to cook meat thoroughly to an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid eating raw or undercooked meat, particularly pork or wild game. Additionally, freezing meat for at least three weeks at sub-zero temperatures can kill the worms before they have a chance to infect humans. By following these simple steps, you can protect yourself and your family from this dangerous disease.
Symptoms of trichinosis can include fever, muscle pain, and swelling around the eyes. Other symptoms may include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fatigue. Symptoms usually appear within one to two weeks after eating infected meat.
Treatment for trichinosis typically involves a prescription medication to kill the adult worms. Pain relievers may also be prescribed to help with muscle pain. In most cases, people recover fully from trichinosis within several months.
To prevent trichinosis, it is important to cook meat thoroughly to an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid eating raw or undercooked meat, particularly pork or wild game. Additionally, freezing meat for at least three weeks at sub-zero temperatures can kill the worms before they have a chance to infect humans. By following these simple steps, you can protect yourself and your family from this dangerous disease.