Tapeworms and Sushi: Risks, Prevention, and What to Know

While it is possible to get tapeworm from eating raw or undercooked fish, the risk is relatively low. Sushi is typically made with freshwater fish, which are less likely to carry tapeworm larvae than saltwater fish. Additionally, sushi-grade fish is typically frozen, which kills any tapeworm larvae that may be present.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are only about 1,000 cases of tapeworm infection in the United States each year. Of these cases, only a small percentage are caused by eating raw or undercooked fish.

If you are concerned about getting tapeworm from eating sushi, you can take the following precautions:

* Only eat sushi made with freshwater fish.

* Make sure the fish is sushi-grade and has been frozen.

* Cook the fish to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

* Avoid eating raw or undercooked shellfish.

By following these precautions, you can help reduce your risk of getting tapeworm from sushi.