The Lebanon Ministry of Public Health issued the following statement Friday:
"Following the registration of suspected cases of trichinosis, the Ministry of Public Health is following up on the matter, in coordination with the relevant authorities, by conducting the necessary epidemiological investigations and laboratory tests, with the aim of identifying the sources of infection and taking appropriate measures to protect public health."
The statement explained that "trichinosis is a parasitic disease transmitted to humans through the consumption of raw or undercooked meat, particularly infected pork and its derivatives. The disease is not transmitted directly from person to person. The incubation period ranges from two to eight weeks after consuming the contaminated meal."
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It added, "Symptoms usually begin with digestive disturbances including nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, which may be followed by fever, muscle aches, extreme fatigue, and swelling around the eyes. In severe cases, complications may occur affecting the heart, nervous system, and respiratory system."
In this context, the Ministry urged citizens to adhere to the following preventive guidelines:
Avoid consuming raw or undercooked meat.
Purchase meat from reliable and regulated sources.
Freezing, salting, and smoking are not guaranteed methods for eliminating the parasite.
Adherence to hygiene and food safety rules is crucial when preparing meat.
Consult a doctor if any suspected symptoms appear after consuming raw or undercooked meat.
The importance of early diagnosis and appropriate treatment to minimize complications was emphasized.
Restaurant owners, butchers, and meat suppliers were warned against any adulteration or manipulation of the type, source, or expiration date of meat. Violations will be monitored in coordination with the relevant regulatory and judicial authorities, and necessary legal measures will be taken against violators.
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