Update - Outbreak of Salmonella Infections Linked to Pet Hedgehogs
August 1, 2019
CDC and public health officials in several states are investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium infections linked to contact with pet hedgehogs.
As of July 31, 2019, a total of 47 people infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Typhimurium have been reported from 21 states. A list of the states and the number of cases in each can be found on the map of reported cases page.
Illnesses started on dates from October 22, 2018 to July 6, 2019. Ill people range in age from 2 to 95 years, with a median age of 17 years. Sixty-seven percent are female. Of 30 people with information available, 8 (27%) have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported.
Whole genome sequencing (WGS) was performed on 34 isolates from 27 ill people and 7 animals. Analysis of WGS did not predict antibiotic resistance in isolates from 26 people and 7 animals. One isolate from an ill person had predicted resistance to ampicillin. Testing of 8 clinical isolates using standard antibiotic susceptibility testing methods by CDC’s National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System (NARMS) showed no resistance. If antibiotics are needed, this resistance profile should not affect the choice of antibiotic used to treat most people.
Investigation of the Outbreak
In interviews, ill people answered questions about animal contact in the week before they became ill. Of 35 people interviewed, 26 (74%) reported contact with hedgehogs before becoming ill. Ill people reported buying hedgehogs from various sources, including pet stores, breeders, or online.
The outbreak strain of Salmonella Typhimurium was identified in samples collected from 11 hedgehogs in Minnesota and Oregon, including 6 hedgehogs from the homes of six ill patients. A common source of hedgehogs has not been identified. Regardless of where hedgehogs are purchased, these animals can carry Salmonella germs that can make people sick. Hedgehog owners should always follow steps to stay healthy around their pet.
This investigation is ongoing, and CDC will provide updates when more information becomes available.
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