Urgent Update: Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Dog Food
As of November 1st, 2023, a concerning outbreak of salmonella has affected seven individuals across seven states. Among these cases, six of the victims are under the age of one. Despite one hospitalization, thankfully, there have been no reported fatalities. Let’s hope this remains the case.
The outbreak stems from contamination linked to specific dog food products. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlighted the cause, stating, “People in this outbreak got sick from touching recalled dog food, touching things like dog bowls that contained the dog food, or touching the poop or saliva of dogs that were fed the dog food.”
The manufacturer, Mid America Pet Food, has taken voluntary action, recalling several of its brands—Victor, Eagle Mountain, Wayne Feeds, and certain types of Member’s Mark. These recalled products have best-buy dates up to October 31st, 2024. Urgently, the FDA advises consumers to dispose of any affected packages in a secure container. This isn’t the first instance either; Mid America has previously issued two other recalls earlier this year.
The recall announcement underscores the severity, urging, “Do not feed it to your pets or other animals, and do not donate.” Additionally, it stresses the importance of thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting all pet-related supplies and surfaces that may have been exposed to the contaminated food.
Understanding Salmonella and Its Symptoms:
Salmonella is a bacterium known to cause illness and even fatalities in both humans and animals, especially affecting the very young, elderly, or those with weakened immune systems. According to the CDC, common symptoms of Salmonella infection in humans include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. While most individuals recover without specific treatment, severe cases may require hospitalization and immediate antibiotic treatment to prevent the infection from spreading beyond the intestines.
When it comes to pets, they may not always exhibit symptoms despite being infected with Salmonella. However, signs to watch for include vomiting, diarrhea (which might contain blood), fever, loss of appetite, and reduced activity levels. If your pet demonstrates these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek prompt veterinary care. Furthermore, be aware that infected pets can shed the bacteria in their feces even without displaying any outward signs of illness.
It’s paramount to stay vigilant, especially if you suspect exposure to the recalled products or if you notice any related symptoms in your pets or yourself. Consulting a healthcare provider or veterinarian promptly can make a significant difference in managing and treating Salmonella infections.
UPDATE on 11/17/2023: more recalls, here is the list of the new brands from the FDA website.
