DDC warns against uncooked pork after 12 deaths in Thailand

The Department of Disease Control (DDC) issued a warning today regarding the consumption of uncooked pork, following 12 fatalities linked to Streptococcus suis in four provinces in the lower northeastern region of Thailand.

Dr Taweechai Wisanuyothin, head of DDC Office 9, reported that from January 7 to September 3, there were 149 cases of hearing loss caused by this bacterium in the surveillance areas of Nakhon Ratchasima, Buri Ram, Surin, and Chaiyaphum.

Nakhon Ratchasima recorded the highest number of cases with 89, including six deaths. Chaiyaphum followed with 31 cases and four fatalities, Surin with 16 cases and one death, and Buriram with 13 cases and one death. The majority of these cases involved elderly individuals aged 65 and older.

Streptococcus suis, a peanut-shaped bacterium, is commonly found in the upper respiratory tract, particularly the tonsils and nasal cavity, and the alimentary and genital tracts of swine. Humans can contract the bacterium through the consumption or exposure to raw pork, pigs’ blood, and internal organs. It can also enter the body through open wounds, scratches, or eye conjunctiva.

Dr Taweechai explained that infection typically presents as a fever, with hearing loss manifesting around 14 days later. Symptoms include a high fever, severe headache, dizziness, vomiting, and neck stiffness. In severe cases, the infection can lead to permanent hearing loss and even death, particularly among immunosuppressed individuals.

The DDC recommends purchasing pork from reliable sources and ensuring that meat, internal organs, and blood are cooked at 60–70 degrees Celsius for more than 10 minutes. It is also advised to use separate utensils for handling cooked and raw pork, reported Bangkok Post.

“Do not buy pork with a strong smell or dark colour. Also, do not touch raw pork and blood with bare hands. If there is a wound, it must be covered tightly, and hands should be washed after touching the pig every time.

“If there are any signs of the reported symptoms, see a doctor immediately.”