What is Trichinosis primarily caused by?

Trichinosis is primarily caused by a parasitic infection that results from consuming undercooked pork or wild game that is infected with the larvae of the Trichinella worm. When these infected meats are not cooked to the proper internal temperature, the larvae can survive and be released in the intestine, where they mature into adult worms. The adult worms then release larvae that can migrate through the bloodstream and encyst in muscle tissue, leading to the various symptoms associated with the disease.

Understanding the nature of trichinosis underscores the importance of proper cooking techniques and food safety measures when preparing meats, particularly in regions where consumption of wild game is common. This knowledge can help prevent the disease by ensuring that meats are cooked thoroughly to safe temperatures, effectively killing any potential parasites present. The other options refer to different causes of foodborne illnesses, but they do not relate to trichinosis; hence, they do not accurately describe the primary cause of this specific infection.