10 Trichinosis Symptoms

By karen

Reviewed: dr. vanta

Article Sources

Article Sources

• 1. 'CDC - Trichinellosis - General Information.' Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4 Sept. 2020, www.cdc.gov/parasites/trichinellosis/gen/info/faqs.html
• 2. 'Diarrhoea.' Trusted Health Advice | Healthdirect, 5 Sept. 2020, www.healthdirect.gov.au/diarrhoea
• 3. 'Trichinosis - Symptoms and Causes.' Mayo Clinic, 29 May 2020, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/trichinosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20378583
• 4. 'Trichinosis Fact Sheet.' New York State Department of Health, www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/trichinosis/fact/sheet.htm

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Trichinosis, also known as trichinellosis, is an illness caused by the parasite trichinella. The larvae of this roundworm can be present in raw or undercooked meat products. Commonly, carriers of the parasite include wild animals and pigs, although infection from farm-raised pork in North America is rare.

When humans eat improperly prepared meat infected with the parasite, they can become ill. Symptoms may start within one to two days following consumption of the meat and can continue for up to eight weeks. Infection can not be spread through human-to-human contact.¹‘CDC - Trichinellosis - General Information.’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4 Sept. 2020, www.cdc.gov/parasites/trichinellosis/gen/info/faqs.html

Diarrhea and Stomach Pain

Humans infected with the trichinella parasite may begin to experience diarrhea within a day or two of eating contaminated meat products. It's defined as loose or watery stools that occur more than three times a day.

Diarrhea can be uncomfortable when accompanied by other symptoms, such as stomach pain or a strong urgency to use the restroom. The repeated passing of loose bowel movements can lead to dehydration, particularly in children or the elderly. Sipping water or drinking an oral rehydration liquid may help to keep the body hydrated.²‘Diarrhoea.’ Trusted Health Advice | Healthdirect, 5 Sept. 2020, www.healthdirect.gov.au/diarrhoea