Health Streptococcus suis Outbreak in Phrae: Public Urged to Avoid Raw Pork

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Streptococcus suis Outbreak in Phrae: Public Urged to Avoid Raw Pork

 

Pictures courtesy of Amarin TV

 

Authorities have issued a public warning in Phrae province following an alarming outbreak of Streptococcus suis (S.suis) which has tragically led to the deaths of two individuals and resulted in 14 others undergoing treatment.

 

Health officials are urging the community to avoid raw or undercooked pork to prevent further infections. This warning comes as reports surface that the victims, particularly during the Songkran festival, consumed raw pork.

 

Den Panyanant, the deputy director of public health in Phrae, disclosed that investigations indicated many patients had slaughtered pigs themselves and consumed raw or minimally cooked pork.

 

Alarmingly, some individuals had wounds which came into contact with raw pork, providing a pathway for the bacteria to enter the body. To avoid such infections, the public is advised to thoroughly cook pork, ensuring it reaches a temperature of at least 70 degrees Celsius for a minimum of 10 minutes.

 

Precautions are also suggested for those involved in food preparation, particularly those with open wounds. Using gloves and maintaining separate utensils for raw and cooked pork can significantly reduce the risk of contamination.

 

Symptoms such as high fever, vomiting, or a stiff neck following the consumption of raw pork should prompt immediate medical consultation to address potential S.suis infections.

 

Despite the outbreak, local pork sales at wet markets in Phrae remain steady. Vendors report that consumer confidence in meat quality remains unshaken, as the majority of pork in the market is sourced from certified farms, ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

 

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the importance of public awareness and proper food handling to curb the outbreak.

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-05-07