Puppies May Be Responsible For Making Dozens of People Sick in 13 States
We all love puppies, right? Well, it turns out they could be making us sick.
Recently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stated that there have been nearly 30 cases of people becoming sick in 13 states (including Minnesota, Ohio, Nevada, Utah, and Kentucky), which resulted in four hospitalizations.
The culprit? Campylobacter bacteria, which according to the report is carried by dogs that otherwise seem healthy and clean. The sickness, according to the CDC, is believed to be linked to those who had recently come in contact with puppies.
To prevent catching the illness, the CDC suggests thoroughly washing your hands after touching a dog and/or cleaning up after them. It is also recommended to not let pups lick around a person’s face or mouth, as well as any open wounds or broken skin.
Furthermore, the CDC states, noticeable indicators of a puppy carrying the illness include an apparent sluggishness, lack of appetite and abnormal breathing.
As far as humans, symptoms could include bloody diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps, lasting for about one week and often treatable with antibiotics in severe instances.
The CDC also recommends keeping up with your dog’s veterinary visits regularly.
Let’s face it: Is this going to stop anyone from cuddling with puppies? Probs not, but it’s good to know regardless.