Concerns About Parasites from Undercooked Pork: What You Need to Know

Q: Concerns About Parasites from Undercooked Pork: What You Need to Know

Hello： If the ingredients are properly handled, it should not lead to consuming undercooked pork, as it is not eaten raw but rather cooked. <br>Typically, the cooking temperature is sufficient to kill pathogens. <br>Changhua Hospital cares about your health. <br>Dr. <br>Tsai An-s

Concerns about parasites in raw pork?

Hello, doctor.
Five days ago, I dined at an all-you-can-eat barbecue restaurant and seem to have eaten a bite or two of undercooked raw pork.
However, I did not experience any diarrhea that day, and I felt fine for the past few days.
But this afternoon, I started having diarrhea.
I'm not sure if it's caused by the raw pork I consumed or if it's due to something unsanitary in my lunch today.
I would like to know if diarrhea from eating raw pork can be delayed for that many days.
Thank you for your guidance!

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/26

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: If the ingredients are properly handled, it should not lead to consuming undercooked pork, as it is not eaten raw but rather cooked.
Typically, the cooking temperature is sufficient to kill pathogens.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2020/06/26

More Info

Eating undercooked pork can indeed raise concerns about parasitic infections, particularly from organisms such as Trichinella spiralis, which causes trichinosis, and various species of Taenia, which can lead to taeniasis. However, the onset of symptoms can vary significantly depending on the type of infection and the individual's immune response.

In the case of trichinosis, symptoms typically appear within 1 to 2 weeks after consuming infected meat. Initial symptoms may include gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. These symptoms can be followed by more systemic symptoms like fever, muscle pain, and swelling of the face, particularly around the eyes. If you consumed undercooked pork five days ago, it is possible that if you contracted trichinosis, you might start experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms soon, but it is also possible for symptoms to be delayed.

On the other hand, if you are experiencing diarrhea today, it could also be attributed to other factors such as foodborne illnesses from other sources, particularly if you had lunch that was not prepared under hygienic conditions. Common pathogens that can cause diarrhea include bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter, as well as viruses like norovirus. These infections can manifest within hours to a few days after exposure, which aligns with your experience of developing diarrhea after a few days.

It is important to monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, fever, or any other concerning symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform appropriate tests, such as stool cultures or blood tests, to determine the cause of your symptoms and provide the necessary treatment.

In terms of prevention, it is crucial to ensure that pork and other meats are cooked to safe internal temperatures to kill any potential parasites or pathogens. The USDA recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) followed by a three-minute rest time. Additionally, practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands before handling food and ensuring that food preparation surfaces are clean, can help reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.

In summary, while it is possible for symptoms of a parasitic infection from undercooked pork to manifest days after consumption, it is equally plausible that your current symptoms could be due to other foodborne pathogens. Keep an eye on your symptoms, maintain hydration, and consult a healthcare professional if your condition worsens or does not improve.

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