Salmonella Outbreak Caused by Contact With Hedgehogs

Health authorities in Minnesota have declared a national outbreak of salmonella thought to be caused by contact with pet hedgehogs or its environment. Recently, three people in Minnesota have fallen ill with salmonella. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Officials have confirmed 20 cases of sickness due to salmonella in eight states since December 2011. There have been four hospitalizations and one death in Washington so far.

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had conducted an investigation to find that the strain came from contact with hedgehogs, which are popular as pets in some parts of the country.

"Animals can appear healthy and clean but still carry the pathogen salmonella," said experts. The CDC has cautioned that those who touch hedgehogs or visit their environments should make sure they adhere to basic hygiene practices such as washing hands.



Source-Medindia