Pig ear dog treats contaminated with Salmonella have sickened 127 people who handled them. The outbreak, which has spread to 33 states, includes at least 26 people who have been hospitalized, according to the latest information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Here’s what you need to know about the pig ear dog treat Salmonella outbreak.
Which Products are Involved?
Although some companies have issued recalls, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the CDC are advising that people not buy or feed any brand of these treats to their dogs including pig ear treats they have already purchased and have at home. That’s because ongoing tests indicate that many brands may be contaminated with Salmonella. Dogs can get sick from eating these treats and people who handle these treats or care for dogs who have eaten them can also get sick.
What Should I Do if I Recently Bought Pig Ear Treats?
If you had pig ear dog treats in your house recently. Carefully wash all areas, including storage containers, pantry shelves, etc., with warm soapy water. Then make sure to wash your hands carefully with warm soapy water.
A dog who has a Salmonella infection will usually have diarrhea and may also be lethargic, have a fever or vomit. Your veterinarian can diagnose and treat this infection.
People who handle these contaminated pig ear treats can also develop salmonellosis. In humans, symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramps and fever. A doctor can perform a stool sample test to determine if you have a Salmonella infection that is linked to this outbreak.
What States Are Included in this Outbreak?
The CDC map below shows the 33 states reporting illnesses associated with this outbreak. The outbreak serotypes have been identified as Salmonella serotypes I 4,[5],12:i:-, Infantis, Newport, and London. The case-patients, who range in age from less than 1 year to 90 years old, reported onset of symptoms from June 2015 to July 2019. But the outbreak was only discovered on July 3, 2019.
Experienced Salmonella Lawyers
This is not the first time human illnesses have been linked to pet food. The Salmonella attorneys at Pritzker Hageman have represented clients sickened in previous outbreaks including one young girl who developed a painful bone infection, called osteomyelitis, as a complication of her Salmonella illness.
If you have been sickened in this outbreak, contact our Salmonella Team and put our experience to work for you. Call us toll-free at 1 (888) 377-8900, send a text to 612-261-0856. Or, use the form below. The consultation is free and there is no obligation.