Halzoun

Halzoun is a medical condition that is caused by the ingestion of raw or undercooked sheep or goat meat. It is also known as the "Marrara syndrome" and is prevalent in the Middle East, particularly in Lebanon. The condition is characterized by the inflammation of the pharynx and lymph nodes, leading to symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, fever, and general discomfort.

Causes[edit | edit source]

The primary cause of Halzoun is the consumption of raw or undercooked meat from sheep or goats. The meat is often infected with the larvae of the Fasciola hepatica or the Linguatula serrata, two types of parasites that can survive in the human body. When ingested, these parasites attach themselves to the pharynx and cause inflammation.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of Halzoun usually appear within a few hours after the consumption of the infected meat. The most common symptoms include:

Difficulty swallowing
Fever
General discomfort
Swelling of the lymph nodes
In severe cases, the condition can lead to respiratory distress and can be life-threatening.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

The treatment for Halzoun usually involves the administration of anti-parasitic drugs. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be required to remove the parasites from the pharynx.

Prevention[edit | edit source]

The best way to prevent Halzoun is to avoid consuming raw or undercooked sheep or goat meat. It is also important to ensure that the meat is sourced from reputable suppliers who follow proper hygiene and cooking practices.