
NC Bear Jerky Outbreak Highlights Safe Wild-Game Cooking
North Carolina public-health officials traced a 2024 outbreak of Trichinella spiralis to undercooked jerky made from a wild bear, sickening three people (one of whom was hospitalized with severe symptoms) who all recovered after treatment. The case underscores the importance of cooking game meat to at least 165°F (74°C) and following safe handling to prevent cross-contamination, while researchers note potential shifts in Trichinella patterns among wildlife.













