The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is investigating a cluster of 11 cases of neurological illness in workers at Quality Pork Processors, Inc. (QPP) in Austin, MN which employs approximately 1,100 people.
Over the last 12 months, QPP staff and area physicians noticed a series of similar neurological conditions affecting employees in a specific area of the processing facility. They notified MDH which began reviewing clinical findings and interviewing workers. The eleven cases worked in an area where either swine heads or organs are processed. [Ed. — The employees in this section of the plant used compressed air to aid in the removal of the brain tissue. The company recently announced they were discontinuing this practice and are providing additional personal protective equipment and clothing for workers as a precaution.] Thus far in the investigation, none of the cases had apparent associations outside of the workplace.
The symptoms of the illness are recognized over several weeks to months and are characterized by muscle weakness and abnormal sensation. In some cases the muscle weakness has been severe. Two individuals were hospitalized; one had an extended stay, including rehabilitation. The illnesses appear to be an inflammatory neurological disease, and in five of the cases the diagnosis was consistent with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. All individuals have been released and are in various stages of recovery or rehabilitation. There have been no fatalities. To date a specific etiology has not been identified.
"All of the information we have to date indicates that the general public is not at increased risk for developing this type of illness," said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Sanne Magnan. "Also, there is no evidence that the food supply has been affected."
Minnesota officials are communicating with CDC and colleagues across the country to determine if similar symptoms have been observed at other processing facilities. Additional information is available on the MDH website.
Source:
Minnesota Department of Health Press Release, December 3, 2007