In a concerning development, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reported an outbreak of human trichinellosis in Arizona, Minnesota, and South Dakota. This parasitic zoonotic disease, though rare, was linked to the consumption of bear meat, highlighting the risks associated with undercooked wild game.

The Outbreak Details

In July 2022, a hospitalized patient in Minnesota with symptoms suggestive of trichinellosis triggered an investigation. The patient, along with eight others, had consumed a meal that included bear meat harvested in Canada. Despite being frozen for 45 days, the meat contained motile, freeze-resistant Trichinella nativa larvae, which led to six confirmed trichinellosis cases. Alarmingly, two cases occurred in individuals who ate only the vegetables cooked alongside the meat, pointing to significant cross-contamination risks.

Implications for Public Health

The outbreak underscores several critical points for public health and veterinary practice:

1. Proper Cooking: Cooking meat to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) is essential to kill Trichinella parasites. Color alone is not a reliable indicator of meat doneness.

2. Cross-Contamination: Trichinella-infected meat can contaminate other foods. It's crucial to handle and prepare raw meat separately from other foods to prevent cross-contamination.

3. Awareness and Education: Hunters and consumers of wild game, especially from northern regions, need to be informed about the risks and preventive measures. This includes understanding that freezing does not reliably kill all Trichinella species, particularly freeze-resistant strains like T. nativa.

Clinical and Laboratory Findings

The investigation revealed significant insights into the diagnosis and management of trichinellosis:

• Symptoms included fever, myalgias, periorbital edema, and eosinophilia. Diagnosis was confirmed through positive Trichinella immunoglobulin (Ig) G antibody tests and the presence of Trichinella DNA in patient plasma samples.

• Six of the nine individuals who attended the meal met the case criteria, with three requiring hospitalization and treatment with albendazole.

Veterinary Considerations

Veterinarians play a pivotal role in educating clients about the risks of zoonotic diseases and safe meat handling practices. The trichinellosis outbreak serves as a reminder of the importance of proper food preparation and the potential health risks associated with consuming wild game. Ensuring clients are informed about these risks can help prevent similar outbreaks and protect public health.

Conclusion

This outbreak of trichinellosis linked to bear meat is a stark reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance in food safety practices, especially when dealing with wild game. Veterinary professionals must continue to educate and advocate for safe handling and cooking practices to mitigate the risk of zoonotic diseases like trichinellosis.