In a disturbing incident, a family reunion in South Dakota took a drastic turn when several members fell sick after consuming infected black bear meat. Three individuals had to be hospitalized due to the presence of parasitic worms in the meat, while others experienced mild symptoms of a parasitic roundworm infection. The meat had been originally harvested in Saskatchewan, Canada, and frozen for 45 days before being thawed.

The World Organization for Animal Health has stated that freezing the meat can eliminate some parasites commonly found in black bears. However, freeze-tolerant parasitic species can still survive this process. Unfortunately, this was the case with the black bear meat that had been consumed by the family.

Out of the eight individuals who consumed the meat, six developed symptoms consistent with a parasitic roundworm infection. The severity of the infections varied, but three individuals had to be hospitalized due to the severity of their symptoms. The range of symptoms included severe muscle pain, fever, and potentially life-threatening issues such as heart problems and difficulty breathing.

Thankfully, all family members have now recovered from the infections. However, this incident serves as a reminder to be cautious when consuming game meat, especially wild game harvested in northern latitudes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is crucial to thoroughly cook game meat to reduce the risk of infections.

Experts in wildlife affairs have also emphasized that all bear meat should be considered potentially infected, highlighting the need for safe handling and proper cooking methods. It is essential for individuals to follow guidelines provided by health authorities to minimize the risk of contracting parasites from game meat.

This incident sheds light on the potential dangers that can arise from consuming improperly prepared game meat. As families gather for outdoor activities and hunting, it is important to prioritize food safety and take necessary precautions to protect against parasitic infections.

The CDC advises individuals to educate themselves about the risks associated with consuming game meat and to practice safe handling and cooking techniques to avoid similar incidents in the future.