Triquinosis: 6 Cases Confirmed in Río Cuarto, Health Alert Issued
Río Cuarto, Argentina - Health authorities in Río Cuarto have confirmed six cases of trichinosis, a parasitic disease transmitted through undercooked pork. This development has led to the issuance of a public health alert, urging residents to take precautions when consuming pork products.
What is Trichinosis?
Trichinosis is caused by a roundworm called Trichinella. Humans become infected by consuming undercooked or raw meat, most commonly pork, that contains the larvae of the parasite. Once ingested, the larvae mature into adult worms in the intestines, and then migrate to the muscles, causing inflammation and damage.
Symptoms of Trichinosis
Symptoms of trichinosis can vary in severity and typically appear within 1-30 days after consuming contaminated meat. Some common symptoms include:
- Muscle pain and tenderness, especially in the face, neck, and shoulders
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Swelling of the eyelids and face
Cases in Río Cuarto
The six confirmed cases of trichinellosis in Río Cuarto all stem from the consumption of pork at a recent social gathering. The affected individuals have been hospitalized and are currently receiving treatment.
Health Alert: Prevention is Key
To prevent the spread of trichinellosis, health authorities have issued a public alert urging residents to take the following precautions:
- Cook pork thoroughly to an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C).
- Avoid eating raw or undercooked pork products.
- Freeze pork for at least 20 days at -4°F (-20°C) to kill any parasites.
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling raw pork.
- Clean all surfaces that have come into contact with raw pork.
Seek Medical Attention
Anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with trichinellosis should seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to preventing serious complications.
Additional Information
- Trichinosis is a potentially serious infection that can lead to complications such as myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain).
- There is no vaccine to prevent trichinellosis, but the disease can be treated with medications.
- More information on trichinellosis can be found on the website of the Ministry of Health.
This public health alert is a reminder of the importance of food safety practices. By taking precautions when consuming pork, we can all help to prevent the spread of trichinellosis.