Liver Fluke Infection

High-Risk Dishes

Dishes made with raw freshwater fish or fish that has been fermented without being cooked include:

๐ Koi Pla: Considered one of the highest-risk dishes because it contains raw fish

๐ Raw fish larb

๐ Raw fish salad or pla dishes

๐ Fermented fish, as fermentation does not reliably kill the parasites

๐ Raw pla ra or fermented fish that has not been boiled

๐ Raw marinated fish or uncooked pickled fish dishes

๐ Any traditional dish made by mixing raw freshwater fish with seasonings

Moderate-Risk Dishes

๐ Grilled or roasted fish that remains undercooked inside

๐ Large pieces of fried fish that have not been cooked long enough

๐ Steamed fish or fish curry in which some parts of the fish remain raw

Low-Risk Dishes When Prepared Correctly

๐ Freshwater fish that has been thoroughly boiled, curried, fried, steamed, grilled, or roasted until fully cooked

๐ Pla ra that has been boiled thoroughly before eating

๐ Dishes made with marine fish, as liver fluke infection is primarily associated with freshwater fish

Common Misunderstandings

Lime Juice Does Not Kill Liver Fluke Larvae

The acidity of lime juice is not strong enough, and the contact time is not long enough, to destroy the parasite larvae.

Alcohol, Rice Liquor, or Spices Do Not Kill the Parasites

The alcohol concentration in food or seasonings is not high enough, and exposure does not last long enough, to eliminate the larvae.

Salting or Sour Fermentation Does Not Guarantee That the Parasites Are Dead

Fermentation changes the flavour and helps preserve food, but it is not designed to kill parasite larvae. The larvae may therefore remain alive.

Freezing in a Standard Household Freezer Is Not Reliable

Domestic freezers may not maintain the temperature or freezing duration required by parasite-control standards. Freezing should therefore not be relied upon as a method for making raw freshwater fish safe to eat.

The Most Reliable Way to Prevent Liver Fluke Infection

The most reliable way to prevent liver fluke infection is to cook freshwater fish thoroughly with heat until every part is fully cooked.

Fermentation, pickling, lime juice, alcohol, spices, or household freezing should not be used as substitutes for proper cooking.

 

Reference :

Ruampat Chachoengsao Hospital Liver Fluke Infection

ArokaGO Providers Ruampat Chachoengsao Hospital