Streptococcus suis meningitis, a poacher's risk

Abstract

Streptococcus suis infection is a zoonosis that has been mainly reported in pig-rearing and pork-consuming countries. The most common disease manifestation is meningitis, often associated with cochleovestibular signs. The causative agent is Streptococcus suis serotype 2, found as a commensal in the tonsils of its natural host, the pig. Persons at risk are mostly those with an occupational exposure to domestic pigs or their meat products. A case of meningitis caused by Streptococcus suis in a poacher who had killed and butchered a wild boar is reported. It appears that wild boar hunters are at additional risk of contracting the disease.