(BangkokPost.com) 2 April 2008 - The public health ministry has issued a warning that is certain to make noodle lovers think twice before ordering their favourite bowl of "kway teow."

Public Health Minister Chaiya Sasomsab warned that the traditional way of making the noodle dish, by using semi-cooked pork blood, poses what he called a high risk for consumers to contract the streptococcus bacterium.

“The streptococcus bacterium can be found in pig’s meat as well as its blood. When used in cooking, it increases the risk for people who consume the bacterium to lose their hearing. In some cases, it could lead to liver failure and even death,” he warned.

Despite the "high risk" description, thre have been few cases actually reported. In 2006, 15 people became ill in Lamphun province, of whom two died and four became deaf.

The Public Health Ministry warned that hot weather provides the best breeding conditions for the streptococcus bacteria, and advised the public to be careful during the summer months, to ensure that meat is fully cooked prior to consumption.