How to Prevent Trichinosis

Trichinosis is a food borne disease caused by the larvae of Trichinella spiralis found in infected meat. Symptoms of trichinosis can be mild--virtually non-existent in some people--to severe. In severe cases, complications such as encephalitis, pneumonia and even heart failure can occur. Fortunately, there are some common sense things you can do to prevent trichinosis.

Instructions

1. Freeze your meat. Freezing for an extended period of time kills the Trichinella spiralis larvae, so make sure you freeze your meat products for at least three to four weeks.

2. Cook your meat, particularly pork, until it is well done to prevent trichinosis. You can tell your meat is well done when the juices run clear, or, if you are using a meat thermometer, it should read at least 170 degrees. Cooking meat until it is well done kills the Trichinella spiralis larvae.

3. Clean your kitchen well. Wash and wipe all counter surfaces, the inside of your refrigerator and all knives, cutting boards and other cooking utensils well with hot water and soap. You may use an antibacterial soap or spray but you don't have to.

4. Grind your meat using only a thoroughly clean meat grinder. Meat grinders have many nooks and crannies in which food can become lodged. Inspect your meat grinder before and after every use to ensure that it is perfectly clean. After you use your meat grinder, disassemble it and wash it thoroughly in hot soapy water.

Tips & Warnings

• The symptoms of trichinosis include abdominal cramps, diarrhea or constipation, fever, chills, soreness, thirst, sweating, fatigue, inability to coordinate movements and difficulty breathing. The symptoms may take as long as two weeks following ingestion of infected meat to appear, and they can last from five days to six weeks.

• Regardless of the fact that there is no treatment for trichinosis, you should contact your doctor immediately if you suspect trichinosis. The diagnosis can be confirmed with testing, and symptom treatment can begin.