Outbreak of Extensively Drug-Resistant Salmonella Linked to Raw Pet Food and Cattle Contact, Public Health Agency of Canada Reports

Police – Accident – Death – Obituary News : Outbreak of Drug-Resistant Salmonella Linked to Raw Pet Food and Cattle, Public Health Agency of Canada Reports

An alarming outbreak of extensively drug-resistant salmonella has been traced back to raw pet food and contact with cattle, according to the latest findings by the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC). In a public health notice released on November 11, the agency revealed that a total of 40 cases have been confirmed across six provinces, with Quebec being the most affected with 21 cases, followed by Ontario with 14 cases. Additionally, two cases have been reported in Nova Scotia, and one each in Manitoba, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island. Shockingly, thirteen individuals have been hospitalized as a result of this outbreak.

Of particular concern is the fact that many of the victims are children aged five years or younger. The salmonella strain associated with this outbreak investigation is extensively drug-resistant, meaning it has developed resistance against commonly recommended antibiotics. The outbreak, which dates back to July 2020 and extends until September 2023, is still ongoing as new cases continue to be reported. While no human deaths have been recorded so far, some infected dogs and cattle have unfortunately succumbed to the illness. Alarmingly, children under the age of five make up 43 percent of all cases.

Investigations have revealed that some of the affected individuals had reported exposure to raw pet food or dogs that were fed raw pet food prior to falling ill. Moreover, contact with cattle, especially calves, has been identified as a likely source of infection for some of the reported cases in this outbreak.

Despite ongoing investigations, authorities have yet to identify a common pet food supplier responsible for the outbreak. The Public Health Agency of Canada, in collaboration with provincial public health departments, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, and Health Canada, is diligently working towards uncovering other potential sources of infection.

Salmonella infection symptoms typically manifest between six to 72 hours after exposure and can include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps lasting for four to seven days. It is important to note that infected individuals and animals can continue to spread salmonella for weeks after their symptoms have disappeared, both through direct contact and contaminated surfaces.

While most people fully recover from salmonella infection without requiring medical treatment, severe illness and hospitalization can occur, especially among older adults, young children, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.

Due to the inherent risk of bacteria such as salmonella and E.coli, PHAC strongly advises against feeding pets raw food, particularly in households with young children or immunocompromised individuals. Even seemingly healthy animals can transmit harmful bacteria like salmonella through their feces.

For those who choose to use raw pet food, it is crucial to follow strict hygiene practices. Thoroughly washing hands after preparing food and handling pets is essential. Raw pet food should be stored and prepared separately from human food, and if refrigeration or freezing is necessary, it should be stored in a sealed container. Additionally, dedicated containers and utensils should be used and sanitized, along with any affected surfaces.

PHAC also emphasizes that dogs consuming raw pet food should not be allowed to lick people’s faces, mouths, or wounds. Furthermore, it is vital to wash hands thoroughly after coming into contact with cattle or when visiting farms or petting zoos.

The seriousness of this outbreak has prompted Health Canada and PHAC to take to social media to raise awareness. In a tweet, they warned about the ongoing outbreak of salmonella linked to exposure to raw pet food or cattle and advised sanitizing all areas that come into contact with raw pet food. The tweet also urged the public to wash their hands after handling raw pet food, interacting with cattle, or being in the presence of dogs fed a raw diet.

This outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with raw pet food and contact with animals. Public health agencies are continuing their efforts to identify the exact source of the outbreak and are urging pet owners and the general public to exercise caution and prioritize hygiene to prevent the further spread of this drug-resistant salmonella strain..