The Public Health Agency of Canada reported 27 people are affected by a salmonella outbreak across four provinces resulting from contaminated dog food as of Monday (Sept. 15).
The majority of reported cases are in Western Canada, with 12 cases in British Columbia and 13 in Alberta. Six people have been hospitalized. There are no reported deaths at this time.
Health officials said there are no recalls yet since no specific brand or supplier of dog food has been identified as being responsible.
The cases occurred between mid-February and mid-August this year. Those who became sick reported having handled dog food (such as kibble, dehydrated and freeze-dried treats) before falling ill.
The agency noted that the report only includes lab-confirmed cases, and the actual number of people affected by the outbreak is likely to be much higher.
The severity of infection can range from no visible illness to requiring hospital care. But health officials say most symptoms last 4 to 7 days, and the majority of those affected recover on their own.
Salmonella can affect both dogs and people. Even a dog showing no signs of illness may transmit the infection to people in contact with it.
Health officials are asking everyone to practice good hygiene and hand washing when handling dogs and their food.
They are also reminding everyone to clean and sanitize surfaces that come into contact with dog food and to ensure dog food is properly stored away from human food.
More information on the outbreak can be found in the public health notice on the government's website.
Sally Ji is a Kwantlen Polytechnic University practicum student working with Black Press Media.
