Salmonella was usually transmitted through contaminated foods such as raw meat, breakfast cereal, or pre-cut melon. However, a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the risk of infection was linked to hedgehogs.
On January 25, CDC announced physical contact with hedgehogs - like snuggling or kissing - could be the reason for the latest Salmonella typhimurium outbreak that already affected eleven people in eight states. Wyoming, Texas, Nebraska, Mississippi, Maine, and Colorado have reported one case each, Minnesota has two cases, and Missouri has three. One person was admitted to the hospitalized, but no deaths have been reported.
The spines of hedgehogs aren't poisonous or barbed, but public health officials warned they carry the Salmonella bacteria in their droppings - even when they look clean and don't manifest any sign of illness themselves.
According to CDC, do not kiss or snuggle hedgehogs as the bacteria could spread in the mouth and face, leading to infection. Salmonella can be transmitted to their bodies, habitats, toys, bedding, and anything in the area where they live. People might get sick after touching hedgehogs or anything in their habitats.
In the investigation, CDC has found that 10 out of 11 people infected had been in contact with their pet hedgehog before getting sick. But, they could not identify the common hedgehog supplier amid the outbreak.
Some of the symptoms of Salmonella infection include stomach cramps, fever, and diarrhea 12 to 72 hours after being exposed to the bacteria. Young children, older people, and those with weak immune system were particularly prone to the infection.
In most cases, many people could recover within a week without the need for treatment. However, in a few severe cases, people lost their lives because of the associated complications. In 2013, an elderly man in Spokane, Washington died due to the infection caused by the hedgehog-related outbreak.
Hedgehog owners should take good care of their pet and good hygiene habits are necessary. CDC advised to thoroughly wash hands with soap and water after handling the animal or cleaning its toys and surroundings. In addition, don't let them roam around the house, particularly in areas when you store foods, such as the kitchen.
There are many different kinds of Salmonella bacteria, but the Salmonella serotype Typhimurium and Salmonella serotype Enteritidis are the most common in the United States. The infection is usually common during the summer than in winter.
