Family Hospitalized After Consuming Black Bear Meat Infected with Parasitic Worms

The celebration turned into a disaster when a family's special meal of black bear meat landed multiple members in the hospital instead.

This incident took place during the summer of 2022, as detailed in the most recent edition of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. The unidentified extended family had gathered from different parts of the country to reunite in South Dakota.

One family member, who is a hunter, brought back some black bear meat that he had hunted in northern Saskatchewan in May 2022. He mentioned that the hunting outfitter had advised freezing the meat to ensure any parasites were killed.

After being frozen for 45 days, the meat was taken out to be thawed. The family decided to grill the meat along with some vegetables and served them as delicious kebabs.

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Freezing temperatures can sometimes eliminate certain parasites that are often found in black bears. However, as per the World Organisation for Animal Health, there are some types of parasites that can tolerate freezing temperatures.

Bears and other wildlife like wild boar, wolves, and squirrels can easily contract trichinellosis, a dangerous disease caused by parasitic roundworms called Trichinella. Despite being sick, these animals may still look healthy. It is hard to detect contamination in the meat while preparing it due to the lack of visible signs of the parasite.

Wildlife experts advise bear hunters to assume that all bear meat is contaminated. The CDC suggests cooking the meat thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure that the parasites are killed. Methods like smoking, salting, drying, and microwaving may not always be effective in eliminating the parasites, as experts warn.

The CDC mentioned that at the family reunion, the meat was served rare unintentionally because the dark color made it hard for family members to tell if it was cooked properly. Some family members noticed it was undercooked and decided to put it back on the grill before serving it again.

Unfortunately, it was only after everyone had left the reunion that some people started to feel sick.

A 29-year-old man experienced his first illness, requiring two hospitalizations within three weeks. He complained of severe muscle pain, fever, and swollen eyes. Blood tests revealed eosinophilia, indicating possible allergies, cancer, or parasites.

During his second hospital visit, doctors discovered that the man had consumed bear meat, raising suspicions of trichinellosis. Subsequent tests confirmed the diagnosis, prompting recommendations for testing other family members.

Trichinellosis can result in either a mild or severe infection, with symptoms varying depending on where the larvae migrate in the body. According to the CDC, mild infections may not display any noticeable symptoms. However, if the parasite travels to the gastrointestinal tract, it can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, or vomiting. In muscle tissue, it may cause a fever, rashes, conjunctivitis, and facial swelling. In rare cases, severe symptoms like heart issues, central nervous system problems, and breathing difficulties can occur.

Among the eight family members interviewed by investigators, six exhibited symptoms consistent with trichinellosis. Four individuals had consumed bear meat along with vegetables, while the other two had only eaten vegetables cooked with the contaminated meat. As a result, three family members required hospitalization.

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The hospitalized individuals were treated for trichinellosis with albendazole, an antiparasitic medication. Those who did not require hospitalization received supportive care as their symptoms had already improved before the diagnosis of the infection was made. Fortunately, all affected individuals have now fully recovered.

During the investigation, samples of the frozen bear meat were sent to CDC labs, where Trichinella larvae were detected. The hunter was advised to dispose of any remaining meat. Additionally, the CDC notified the Public Health Agency of Canada about the outbreak, as the bear meat had originated from that country.

It is crucial, according to the CDC, to cook game meat thoroughly, especially wild game from northern latitudes.

To prevent cross-contamination with other foods, it is advised to store and prepare raw meat separately. The CDC also suggests that government agencies and private hunting groups educate hunters on the risks of Trichinella contamination and how to stay safe.

Editor's P/S:

The incident recounted in the article serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proper food handling and preparation, particularly when dealing with wild game. The family's unfortunate experience highlights the risks associated with consuming undercooked bear meat, which can harbor dangerous parasites like Trichinella. It's essential to prioritize food safety and follow the guidelines provided by wildlife experts and health organizations. Thorough cooking of game meat is crucial to eliminate any potential parasites and prevent infections like trichinellosis.

Furthermore, it's crucial for hunters to be aware of the risks posed by Trichinella contamination and to take appropriate precautions to ensure the safety of their meat. Freezing meat for 45 days may not be sufficient to kill all parasites, as some species can tolerate freezing temperatures. It's essential to educate hunters on the proper handling and storage of game meat, emphasizing the importance of thorough cooking to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. By following these guidelines, we can minimize the risk of parasitic infections and enjoy the benefits of consuming wild game safely.