According to a Pennsylvania Department of Health press release, the Department has been investigating human cases of infection from a rare type of Salmonella. Department officials believe that it possibly connected to dry dog food. Due to this, Health Secretary Dr. Calvin B. Johnson is reminding all consumers all over the country to be careful when handling pet food and pet treats.

Pennsylvania has confirmed 21 human cases of Salmonella serotype Schwarzengrund since January of 2006. Many of the illnesses linked to this specific strain of Salmonella involve infants and young children, who are dangerously vulnerable to Salmonella infections. Most of these 21 cases have happened in households with pets or where people are in close contact with pets. However, the Health Department believes that no humans consumed pet food in these cases.

"While the department is working very closely with federal investigators to identify a specific cause and source for these illnesses, it is important that pet owners understand and follow steps to prevent Salmonella infection from occurring," Dr. Johnson said.

In partnership with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Dr. Johnson and the Pennsylvania Department of Health recommend taking the following precautions when coming in contact with or handling pet food:

• Do not buy pet food that has damage to the packaging.
• Feed your pets anywhere in the house besides the kitchen.
• Wash your hands before and after feeding your pet food or treats. Use hot water with soap.
• Wash pet bowls, dishes, scooping utensils with soap and hot water after each use.
• Dispose of old, stale, or spoiled pet food.
• Store pet food in a cool and dry place under 80 degrees.
• Pet food also shouldn't be handled or stored where human food is made or prepared, otherwise there could be a cross contamination.
• Refrigerate wet food.
• Keep food inside its original bag or in a plastic container with a lid.
• Keep pets away from human food and preparation areas.
• Keep pets away from garbage.

Usually symptoms of the illness occurs 24 to 72 hours later and people recover within five to seven days. Usually Salmonella patients do not require treatment unless the infection spreads from the intestines. Also, antibiotics are not usually prescribed unless the infection does spread.

For more information on salmonella, visit the Department of Health at www.health.state.pa.us or call 1-877-PA-HEALTH.

Sources:
Pennsylvania Department of Health. Pennsylvania Department of Health Reminds Consumers How to Safely Handle Pet Food. www.dsf.health.state.pa.us/health/cwp/view.asp