In a shocking turn of events, a family reunion took a sinister turn when six out of eight family members fell ill with trichinellosis, commonly known as "brain worms," after consuming kebabs made from black bear meat. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reported this unusual case of food-borne illness, which is rarely seen in the United States but often associated with the consumption of wild game.

The outbreak came to light when a 29-year-old family member sought medical attention at a Minnesota hospital in July 2022. The individual exhibited symptoms such as fever, severe muscle aches, swelling around the eyes, and abnormalities discovered in blood tests. Upon further inquiry, it was revealed that the family had gathered from various states, including Arizona, Minnesota, and South Dakota, for a summer reunion in the latter state.

During this reunion, the family enjoyed a meal prepared with black bear meat that had been hunted in northern Saskatchewan, Canada, the previous May. The hunter believed the meat was safe for consumption after being stored in a household freezer for 45 days. However, the CDC pointed out that cooking the meat at a temperature exceeding 165 degrees Fahrenheit would have killed the trichinellosis worms.

The report suggests that the meat was initially served rare, as its dark color made it difficult for the family members to determine its level of doneness. It was only after some family members began eating the undercooked meat and noticed the error that it was recooked and served again. Unfortunately, this precautionary measure was not enough to prevent the spread of the dangerous parasites.

Fortunately, despite the severity of the illness, all six family members who fell ill have since recovered. Three of the affected relatives required hospitalization, but they managed to overcome the illness with medical intervention.

Trichinellosis is a rare and potentially serious illness caused by the ingestion of undercooked or raw meat, particularly pork and wild game. Symptoms include nausea, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, fever, and muscle pain. In extreme cases, the infection can lead to severe complications, affecting the lungs, heart, and central nervous system.

This unfortunate incident serves as a reminder of the importance of proper food handling and cooking practices, especially when it comes to consuming wild game. The CDC advises individuals to ensure that meat is thoroughly cooked at safe temperatures to prevent the transmission of food-borne diseases.

As for the affected family members, while their reunion may have been marred by this unexpected health scare, their recovery brings a glimmer of relief. Nevertheless, this incident underscores the need for caution and awareness when it comes to consuming wild game and emphasizes the importance of adhering to recommended cooking guidelines to protect against food-borne illnesses.