Ministry of Agriculture Clarifies Causes and Transmission Methods of Trichinellosis

The Ministry of Agriculture, in light of recent news and information circulating regarding cases of trichinellosis, stated that "this disease is caused by a microscopic parasite known as Trichinella, which belongs to the roundworm family, and is not a bacterium or virus."

In a statement, the ministry confirmed that "infection is transmitted to humans when consuming meat containing larvae of this parasite, raw or undercooked, and does not spread from person to person. Pork meat, especially wild boar, and some other wild animals are among the most prominent sources of infection, while beef, sheep, and goat meat are not considered usual sources for this parasite. Cross-contamination may also occur when meat or other foods come into contact with infected meat or contaminated tools, knives, and cutting surfaces, necessitating the separation of raw meat from other foods and thorough cleaning of tools and surfaces after use."

While stressing that "meat safety requires adherence to veterinary control, conducting approved laboratory tests when necessary, and complying with health conditions for slaughter, handling, storage, preparation, and cooking," the ministry urged citizens to refrain from consuming game meat, especially wild boar, raw or undercooked, and to subject it to approved laboratory tests to detect the Trichinella parasite before consumption, emphasizing that testing does not replace proper cooking.

The ministry noted that "awareness and adherence to food safety guidelines form the basis of prevention and public health protection."