Trichinosis is a foodborne disease which affects the muscles of the body. It is caused by the roundworm, Trichinella spiralis .
Trichinosis is rare in New York City.
Anyone who eats undercooked meat from infected animals can develop trichinosis. Pork, pork products, and wild animal meat are potential sources of Trichinella . Meat-eating animals such as pigs, dogs and cats, and wild animals, such as rats, foxes, wolves, and bears may be infected with Trichinella . When animals or humans eat undercooked meat from animals that are infected they become infected. The symptoms usually start with diarrhea, fever, muscle soreness, pain and swelling around the eyes.