Human Salmonella Outbreak Linked To Dog Food

Officials have linked a human Salmonella outbreak to people handling contaminated dog and cat food that was part of the April recall by Diamond Pet Foods. Health officials have confirmed 47 people in 20 states reported becoming sick with Salmonella-related symptoms, and 10 of them have even been hospitalized.

 So, how do humans get sick from dog food? Salmonella-tainted dog food can contaminate any surface it touches, including human hands, kitchen counters, feeding dishes and scoops. Further, pets with Salmonella infections sometimes show no signs of illness.

To determine if your dog food was part of the massive recall, check the production codes printed on the bags of food. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has a complete list of the pet foods under recall, including Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul, Apex, Canidae, Diamond, Diamond Naturals, Premium Edge, Taste of the Wild, Country Value, Professional, 4Health and Kirkland Signature.

Symptoms of a human Salmonella infection may include fever, diarrhea and stomach cramps that last 4 to 7 days. Salmonella infections can become life-threatening. If you’ve had contact with any of the dog foods under recall and develop these symptoms, visit your health care provider.

If you’re unsure if your dog food is included in the recall – or if you would like a refund, contact Diamond Pet Foods at 1-866-918-8756 or visit diamondpetrecall.com.

To be safe, wash your hands with soap and warm water after contact with dog food.