Thailand’s Department of Health has issued an urgent warning ahead of New Year celebrations, urging people to avoid consuming raw or undercooked pork following a spike in Streptococcus suis infections, also known as “Hearing Loss Fever.” Nakhon Ratchasima province has recorded the highest fatalities, with 93 confirmed cases and 13 deaths reported between January 1 and December 30, 2025.
Officials caution that popular festive dining styles such as Moo Krata (Thai BBQ) and Shabu pose a risk if proper hygiene is not observed. The bacteria can lead to severe complications, including permanent deafness, loss of balance, seizures, meningitis, and even death.
Symptoms to watch for after consuming pork include high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, muscle and joint aches, purple bruising, loss of balance, and sudden hearing loss. Immediate medical attention is advised if any occur.
Authorities recommend following the “Cooked 100%” rule to reduce infection risk:
- Heat: Cook pork above 70°C; avoid medium-rare.
- Separate Utensils: Use different chopsticks and tongs for raw and cooked meat.
- Sourcing: Purchase pork from reputable vendors with fresh, uncontaminated meat.
- Hygiene: Cover wounds and wear gloves when handling raw pork or blood.
Earlier this year, Dr. Jurai Wongsawat from the Department of Disease Control highlighted the disease’s high mortality rate of 6.2%, with past outbreaks linked to traditional raw pork dishes like Raw Larb.
The Department urges the public to adopt strict food hygiene habits during the festive season to ensure a safe and healthy start to the New Year.
