Eating Raw Food Increases Risk of Pig Streptococcus Infection

A 42-year-old man with a dull headache, fever, and hearing loss was diagnosed with Streptococcus suis (swine streptococcus) after consuming raw and undercooked pork products. The patient reported regularly eating fermented pork rolls and rare pork. A brain scan performed a week before hospital admission revealed no abnormalities, but a lumbar puncture confirmed the presence of Streptococcus suis.

Doctors from the Department of Tropical Diseases at Viet Tiep Friendship Hospital stated that the patient’s infection was due to his consumption of raw and undercooked foods. Along with symptoms such as high fever and headache, the patient also experienced hearing loss in his left ear. Following two weeks of treatment, his symptoms improved, and his hearing showed slight recovery.

Meningitis caused by swine streptococcus can lead to severe complications, with hearing loss being a common issue that significantly impacts the quality of life. The disease typically presents with symptoms like high fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and muscle pain. Severe complications may include muscle spasms, consciousness disorders, irritability, coma, tremors, and skin rashes. Doctors warn against consuming raw or undercooked pork products and advise proper food preparation and hygiene practices to prevent infection.

To minimize the risk of infection, individuals should purchase pork that has been inspected by veterinary authorities, ensure meat has clear origins, and avoid consuming products that appear unusual in color, bleeding, or edematous. It is also essential to avoid eating sick pork or dishes made with undercooked pork, especially during an epidemic. Proper food handling, handwashing, and utensil cleaning practices are recommended to prevent the transmission of diseases like Streptococcus suis.