Adult Trichinella spp. reside in the intestinal tract of the vertebrate host; larvae can be found encapsulated in muscle tissue.

Where do Trichinella worms live?

Trichinella spiralis has an extremely broad host range; almost any species of mammal can become infected. Adult worms live around the columnar epithelial cells of the small intestine and the larvae live in striated muscle cells of the same mammal.

Where is Trichinella found?

Most cases come from consuming undercooked wild game meat, such as bear, while some other cases come from eating pork products. The parasite is not found in domestic pigs raised in confinement, but can be found in pigs raised outdoors in close contact with wildlife and rodents.