Four British Columbia residents who feed their pets raw food diets have become infected with the same strain of Salmonella, according the BC Centre for Disease Control.
The exact source of the Salmonella is unknown but investigations are ongoing. Infections can occur during handling of raw meat, including raw pet food, or from pets shedding the bacteria. Animals can carry Salmonella bacteria but show no signs of illness.
Both raw pet food and raw meats often contain bacteria that can lead to illness in people. People are being reminded to wash their hands immediately after handling raw pet food or raw meat, and before touching anything else. Pet owners should also wash their hands after handling or cleaning up after their pet, especially prior to preparing their own food or eating. Other ways to prevent Salmonella infections are to avoid contact between raw meats and other uncooked foods, to use separate cutting boards for raw meats, and to wash and sanitize items such as pet food bowls, cutting boards, utensils, counters, kitchen sinks and tap handles.
Salmonella are bacteria that infect the intestinal tract and sometimes the blood, and are a common cause of diarrhea in B.C. and around the world. Symptoms of Salmonella typically start 6 to 72 hours after exposure to the organism and can include:
- stomach cramps
- diarrhea
- fever
- nausea
- vomiting
- dehydration, especially in infants and the elderly
Symptoms last 4 to 7 days and most people recover without treatment. People who experience severe symptoms, or who have underlying medical conditions, should contact their health-care providers if they suspect they have a Salmonella infection.
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