Trichinosis (Trichinellosis)

Disease Information

Trichinosis, also called trichinellosis (TRICK-a-NELL-o-sis), is caused by eating raw or undercooked pork and wild game products infected with the larvae of a species of worm called Trichinella. Infection occurs worldwide, but is most common in areas where raw or undercooked pork, such as ham or sausage, is eaten.

Disease Reporting

What is required?

Health Care Providers and Clinical Laboratories

Health care providers and clinical laboratories are required by law to report cases and suspect cases of trichinosis to local health departments within one working day of identification.

• Health care providers: Use our secure web-based confidential reporting system – OR – use the confidential PDF reporting form.
• See How and Where to Report for more information and local health department contacts.

For Local Health Departments

• CDC Trichinosis Case Report Form (pdf)

For reportable diseases lacking Oregon-specific investigative guidelines or case report forms, please contact the state epidemiologist on-call for assistance at 971-673-1111.

See Also

• CDC's Trichinellosis website