The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently issued a warning regarding a significant health concern that has emerged across the United States, and surprisingly, puppies are involved. These adorable creatures, beloved for their playful nature and irresistible charm, have been linked to a rise in cases of illness, particularly from pet stores.
On December 17, the CDC announced that it, along with public health officials from various states, is investigating a multi-state outbreak of Campylobacter jejuni—a bacterial infection that causes food poisoning and affects approximately 1.5 million individuals in the U.S. each year. This particular outbreak, however, has been traced back to puppies obtained from pet stores, raising serious concerns since the strain has shown resistance to several antibiotics.
Details of the Outbreak
Since January 2019, this strain of Campylobacter jejuni has manifested in 13 states, resulting in 30 reported cases among individuals ranging from eight months to 70 years old, with four requiring hospitalization. The CDC noted, “Epidemiologic and laboratory evidence indicate that puppies purchased from pet stores are the likely source of this outbreak.” Upon interviewing 24 affected individuals, it was revealed that 21 had contact with puppies, with 15 specifically linking their exposure to pet stores, particularly Petland. Notably, five of these individuals were employees of the chain.
While the CDC continues to search for the source of the infected puppies, Petland has highlighted that a significant portion of reported cases originates from states where the store does not operate. They mentioned that with over 12 million visitors each year, the likelihood of contracting an illness from their puppies remains minimal.
Guidelines for Puppy Owners
The CDC emphasizes that this warning should not deter puppy lovers. Instead, they have provided valuable guidelines to safely enjoy the companionship of these furry friends. The primary recommendation is rigorous hand hygiene—always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use hand sanitizer, especially after interacting with your puppy or cleaning up after them. Parents should ensure their children follow similar practices, particularly after handling pet waste.
Additionally, avoid allowing dogs to lick your face or open wounds, which can increase the risk of infection. If you have acquired a puppy from a source other than a pet store, your risk may be lower; however, should your pet exhibit any signs of illness, it is crucial to consult a veterinarian promptly. Likewise, if you experience symptoms such as diarrhea (potentially bloody), fever, or abdominal cramps within two to five days post-contact with a puppy, seeking medical attention is advisable. The duration of the illness typically lasts around a week, though recovery may take longer.
Additional Resources
For those interested in pregnancy and home insemination resources, check out this excellent guide provided by UCSF’s Center. Additionally, if you’re considering self insemination options, visit Make a Mom for reliable products. For more related information, you can also explore this post on our blog.
Conclusion
In summary, while puppies can bring joy and companionship, it’s important to be aware of potential health risks associated with them, particularly those from pet stores. Practicing proper hygiene and monitoring your pet’s health can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience with your furry friend.
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