The outbreak of Streptococcus suis infections in Thailand continues: 137 infections and 8 deaths have been reported within the last three weeks. The increase in infections is linked to the consumption of raw or undercooked pork, sausages and raw pork blood salad.
Infection with Streptococcus suis is usually asymptomatic in pigs. Humans can become infected by eating contaminated raw or undercooked pork and fresh blood or through direct contact with infected pigs or pork products. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache and dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, neck stiffness, intolerance to light, decreased level of consciousness and hearing loss.
Avoid eating raw or undercooked pork and fresh blood. Pork should be cooked so that it reaches an internal temperature of 70° C. It is recommended to buy fresh pork only from reliable sources, wash your hands regularly, use separate utensils for cooked and raw meat and wear gloves when handling pork.