A man in his 40s who experienced a dull headache, fever, and hearing loss was diagnosed with Streptococcus suis (swine streptococcus) after consuming raw and undercooked pork products. Despite a brain scan showing no abnormalities a week before hospital admission, a lumbar puncture confirmed the presence of the bacteria.
The Department of Tropical Diseases at Viet Tiep Friendship Hospital stated that the patient’s infection was caused by his consumption of raw and undercooked foods. In addition to symptoms like high fever and hearing loss in his left ear, the patient also experienced muscle spasms, consciousness disorders, irritability, coma, tremors, and skin rashes.
Meningitis caused by swine streptococcus can lead to severe complications, with hearing loss being a common issue that significantly impacts the quality of life. The disease typically presents with symptoms like high fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and muscle pain. Severe complications may include muscle spasms, consciousness disorders, irritability, coma, tremors and skin rashes. Doctors advise against consuming raw or undercooked pork products and recommend proper food preparation and hygiene practices to prevent infection.
To minimize the risk of infection from Streptococcus suis or other food-borne illnesses, individuals should purchase pork that has been inspected by veterinary authorities; ensure meat comes from clear origins; avoid consuming products that appear unusual in color or edematous; eat sick pork or dishes made with undercooked pork only during an epidemic; practice proper food handling techniques such as washing hands frequently and cleaning utensils thoroughly; avoid cross-contamination between different types of meat; cook meat thoroughly before consuming it; store leftovers properly in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth; consume cooked meats within two days after purchase to minimize bacterial growth on them
