Can You Get Parasites from Unwashed Hands After Handling Dumplings? - Internal Medicine

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I would like to know if this could lead to a parasitic infection?


I cooked raw dumplings today (which were pre-made) and forgot to wash my hands before touching my teeth.
I remember seeing that there are parasites that lay eggs in pork, so I want to know if I could get infected this way.
Please help me with this, thank you.

Andy, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/12

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine


Hello, based on the process you described, since you are not directly consuming raw pork, there should be no concern about parasitic infection.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2021/09/12

More Info


Handling food, especially raw meat products like dumplings, raises valid concerns about hygiene and the potential for transmitting parasites or pathogens. When it comes to the risk of infection from unwashed hands after handling raw dumplings, there are several factors to consider.

Firstly, it's important to understand that certain parasites, such as Trichinella spiralis, which can cause trichinosis, are associated with undercooked or raw pork. This parasite can be present in pork products, and if ingested, it can lead to gastrointestinal issues and other symptoms. However, the risk of infection is significantly reduced if the pork is cooked to the appropriate internal temperature, which is at least 145°F (63°C) for whole cuts and 160°F (71°C) for ground pork. If the dumplings were cooked thoroughly, the likelihood of contracting a parasite from them is minimal.

Regarding your specific situation, if you handled raw dumplings and then touched your teeth without washing your hands, the primary concern would be the transfer of bacteria or viruses rather than parasites. Common pathogens associated with raw meat include Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause foodborne illnesses. These bacteria can be present on the surface of raw meat and can easily transfer to your hands and then to your mouth if proper hygiene practices are not followed.

To mitigate the risk of infection, it is crucial to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling raw meat and before touching your face, mouth, or any other surfaces. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can be effective, but they are not a substitute for proper handwashing, especially when dealing with raw food products. The mechanical action of scrubbing with soap and water is essential for removing pathogens effectively.

In your case, since you are concerned about the possibility of infection after touching your teeth with unwashed hands, it is advisable to monitor for any symptoms of gastrointestinal distress, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. If you experience any of these symptoms, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

In summary, while the risk of contracting a parasite from unwashed hands after handling cooked dumplings is low, the potential for bacterial transmission is a valid concern. Always practice good hygiene by washing your hands thoroughly after handling raw food and before touching your face or mouth. This simple practice can significantly reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses and keep you healthy. If you have any further concerns or experience symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

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