In a follow-up to the multidrug-resistant Campylobacter outbreak linked to contact with puppies sold through Petland stores, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said Tuesday that the investigation is over. The last illness began on January 7, 2018.
A total of 113 people with laboratory-confirmed infections or symptoms consistent with Campylobacter infection from 17 state were the final numbers reported, this is up 16 cases since last month.
Ohio, Florida and Illinois all reported double digit number of cases.
However, officials also note that illnesses could continue to occur because people may be unaware of the risk of Campylobacter infections from puppies and dogs.
The outbreak resulted in 23 hospitalizations. No deaths were reported.
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Campylobacter bacteria isolated from clinical samples from people sickened in this outbreak were resistant to commonly recommended, first-line antibiotics. Using Whole genome sequencing (WGS), we identified multiple antimicrobial resistance genes and mutations in most isolates from 38 ill people and 10 puppies in this outbreak.
Health officials determined that epidemiologic and laboratory evidence indicated that contact with puppies sold through Petland stores was the likely source of this outbreak.
Investigators did not identify a common breeder who supplied the puppies infected with the outbreak strain. Puppies may have become infected at various points along the distribution chain when they had contact with puppies from other breeders or distributors during transport to pet store locations.
Pet owners should be aware that any puppy or dog, regardless of where it is purchased or adopted, may carry germs like Campylobacter that can make people sick.
Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water right after touching puppies and dogs, or after picking up their poop.
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