trichinellosis: the far reach of one black bear
September 30, 2005The bear was killed in Quebec by ten French hunters at the end of August. Some of it was cooked immediately and eaten. Some was taken back to France, and shared with relatives. So far, 14 have become ill with trichinellosis, and a few are still in the hospital.
The adult parasite, after entering the human body, produces larvae, which travel via the blood to the muscles. Treatment can eradicate the parasite in the intestines, but is not as effective in the muscles. The pain can go on for years.
Bear meat should be cooked to 71 C or 160° F.
