Vietnamese Man Critically Ill with Sepsis After Consuming Pork Intestines

A man in Vietnam was recently hospitalized with severe sepsis after consuming pork intestines, facing a life-threatening situation. The man, in his mid-50s, was admitted to the General Hospital of Vinh City, Nghe An Province. His condition was diagnosed as multiple organ failure caused by infection with Streptococcus suis.

Hospitalization and Swift Treatment

According to the General Hospital of Vinh City, the man exhibited severe hypotension and septic shock symptoms immediately upon admission. Within the first hour, purple spots appeared on his arms and legs, signaling abnormalities in his blood circulation and clotting functions. The medical team promptly initiated intensive care.

Pork Intestine Consumption and Cause of Infection

Reviewing the patient's medical history, it was confirmed that he had consumed pork intestines approximately three days before falling ill. The medical team determined that his symptoms were consistent with a typical Streptococcus suis infection. However, it was unclear whether the intestines were consumed raw or undercooked.

Treatment Process and Recovery

The medical team performed an endotracheal intubation to secure the patient's airway and administered antibiotics to combat the infection. However, his condition rapidly deteriorated, leading to multiple organ failure and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) within a day of treatment. This was an extremely critical state, making survival uncertain.

Fortunately, thanks to the appropriate interventions by the medical team, the patient's blood pressure began to stabilize gradually 72 hours after treatment commenced, and infection markers decreased. After 10 days of intensive care, the patient fully regained consciousness and could communicate with the medical staff. No further signs of infection or blood clotting abnormalities were detected.

Preventing Streptococcus suis Infection

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of Streptococcus suis infection. This infectious disease can be transmitted through contact with infected pigs or by consuming undercooked pork or pork offal. Symptoms of infection can include:

• High fever
• Headache
• Altered consciousness
• Subcutaneous bleeding or purpura

The appearance of purpura, characterized by purple spots, is a sign that the infection has already reached a severe stage. Therefore, it is crucial to adhere to the following preventive measures:

• Do not slaughter or consume sick or dead pigs.
• Avoid raw blood sausage, undercooked pork, and insufficiently cooked offal.
• Use pork from reliable sources that have undergone veterinary inspection.

Furthermore, it is essential to wear protective gear when handling raw pork or during slaughtering operations. If you have any open wounds on your hands, avoid food processing. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap before and after cooking, and ensure all cooking utensils are properly cleaned.