The CDC has updated its investigation into the Salmonella Infantis outbreak that has been linked to several brands of dry dog food produced by Diamond Pet Foods in South Carolina. So far, 15 people have been sickened. Five have been hospitalized; there have been no deaths. In addition, one person in Canada is ill.
The case count is as follows:
- Alabama (1)
- Connecticut (1)
- Michigan (1)
- Missouri (3)
- North Carolina (3)
- New Jersey (1)
- Ohio (2)
- Pennsylvania (2)
- Virginia (1)
One new case was reported in Pennsylvania. Consumers are urged to check their homes for the recalled pet food products, which include dry dog food and dry cat food, and discard them if they have purchased one of those products. Look for the Production Code on the package. Recalled items have the numbers “2” or “3” in the 9th or 10th position and the letter “X” in the 10th or 11th position.
If you are experiencing the symptoms of Salmonella food poisoning, including diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, please see your doctor. If your pet is showing symptoms of salmonellosis, which can include lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, excess salivation, and loss of appetite, take him to see your veterinarian.
Some people can suffer long time effects of a Salmonella infection, including reactive arthritis and myocarditis, and anyone in a high risk group may become ill enough to require hospitalization. Thirty percent of the patients in this outbreak have been hospitalized.
It’s important to always wash your hands after handling pet food, washing your pet’s food and water dishes, and scooping poop or cleaning litter boxes. Pets can be carriers of bacteria without showing symptoms. Make sure that children wash their hands frequently, using warm water and soap, after touching pet food or playing in an area where pets may defecate.
