A handful of individuals residing in some of the Easter Canadian Provinces have been infected with the bacteria known as salmonella. There were actually a total of eleven confirmed cases reported in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Quebec within the year 2020 thus far. These occurrences were confirmed by the Public Health Agency of Canada. With such a prevalence of salmonella infection occurring in such a short period of time, the consumer has to wonder what exactly could be the cause. Situations like this do not arise on a case by case basis and are more so generally linked with a particular outbreak source or series of events.

 Pet Hedgehogs Are the Cause

When researching the possible cause of a salmonella outbreak, potential causes identified include contaminated foods, improperly handled raw poultry, or fresh produce. Some of the most publicized salmonella outbreaks have been in the field of food manufacturing or packaging. The poultry company Foster Farms Chicken made a name for itself in 2013 when

the California chicken producer Foster Farms became responsible for infecting six hundred and thirty four consumers. The incidents occurred across twenty nine states and Puerto Rico. Thankfully, no deaths ensued from the illness, but the company did issue a recall on all of its Foster Farms frozen or refrigerated chicken products.

In this case, however, the cause is contact with well loved pet hedgehogs. The individuals who experienced the outbreak had purchased pet hedgehogs from various sources. There was no pattern as to the age of those affected. The youngest individual affected was two months and an older individual affected was 63 years old. Most of those affected were men. The infection was spread via mouth when pet owners kissed their pet hedgehogs. Pet hedgehog owners are encouraged to refrain from kissing their pet hedgehogs, as well as to frequently wash their hands after handling their pet hedgehogs.

 Crisis Averted

None of those affected by the salmonella outbreak were hospitalized or suffered from any serious medical issue impacting their long-term health. These individuals averted the more serious health risks that can be associated with salmonellosis, also known as salmonella infection.

The individuals affected did experience unpleasant symptoms, however, even if temporary. Their symptoms ranged from fevers to chills to diarrhea. Should you own or house a pet hedgehog and experience any of these symptoms, it is recommended to make the earliest possible appointment with your primary care doctor. Should it prove impossible to visit your doctor within twenty four hours of experiencing symptoms, you should visit a nearby drop in or emergency clinic. Salmonella infection can escalate quickly and there is no time to waste when it comes to your safety.

 Salmonella in the United States

Within the United States, there have also been several cases of salmonella infections reported. In the month of October 2020 alone, there were thirty two reported salmonella outbreaks all within only seventeen of the United States. Thankfully, none of these infections resulted in death.