At this festive time of year, many Nassau residents enjoy chitterlings (pig intestines) as a New Year dish. The Nassau County Department of Health reminds those who prepare chitterlings of the danger of yersiniosis disease.

When chitterlings are prepared, yersinia bacteria (which are present in the intestines of pigs) can be transferred from raw meat to hands, utensils, cutting boards, counter tops, and from there to other foods or baby bottles.

To avoid the cross-contamination that spreads the bacteria, it is important to wash hands and utensils with hot, soapy water after handling chitterlings. Food preparation surfaces, utensils, cutting boards, as well as refrigerator shelves where chitterlings have been stored can be cleaned with a solution of bleach diluted with water.

The safest way to prepare chitterlings is to purchase the product pre-cooked. Cooking kills the yersinia bacteria present in pork entrails. If raw chitterlings are used, pre-boil them for five minutes before handling and cleaning. Pre-boiling makes cleaning chitterlings easier, does not change the taste, and eliminates the threat of yersiniosis.

In 2002 to date, Nassau County has had 4 cases of yersiniosis; none of which were associated with chitterlings. In 2001, there were 10 cases of yersiniosis, 2 of which were associated with chitterlings. In 2000, there were eight cases of yersiniosis; two of which were associated with chitterlings. In 1999, there were eight cases of yersiniosis; one of which was associated with chitterlings and in 1998, there were eight cases, two of which were associated with chitterlings.

Yersiniosis is a serious intestinal infection that frequently affects infants, producing severe abdominal cramps, diarrhea and fever. Symptoms sometimes mimic appendicitis. Children, particularly babies under one year of age, are most likely to become sick and to suffer the most severe effects, although any one can come down with the disease. Antibiotic medication is usually prescribed to treat the infection.

If a child develops fever and diarrhea, and someone in the family has recently prepared chitterlings, a physician should be consulted immediately. A special laboratory test may be necessary since routine tests may not confirm the presence of yersinia bacteria.

Approximately 150 to 200 cases of yersiniosis are reported each year in New York State.