The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has issued a public health notice after an investigation into salmonella cases across the country, with nearly half of cases in Alberta.
So far, the agency said there are 27 illnesses in total, 13 in Alberta, which are connected to dog food and treats, but the brand and type has yet to be determined.
The PHAC said people can get sick through contact with a dog, their food or treats.
Even if dogs don’t show any signs of illness, they can still infect people who are in contact with them or their environment.
To reduce the risk of becoming ill from contact with a dog, their food or treats:
- Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after handling any type of dog food or treat.
- Teach children to wash their hands thoroughly, with soap and water, every time after touching dogs, their food or treats.
- Wash and sanitize any containers, utensils and surfaces that have come into contact with dog food or treats before using them again. This includes food and water bowls, countertops, microwaves and refrigerators.
- Use dedicated dishes and utensils to serve your dog and wash them separately from other dishes and utensils.
- Store all dog food and treats away from where human food is stored or prepared and away from reach of young children. Pick up food and treats containers when your pet is done with them.
According to the agency, people became sick between mid-February and mid-August of this year with the majority of cases being female. There are six hospitalizations and no reported deaths.
PHAC said the actual number of sick people in the country is likely much higher as many people have mild symptoms and do not seek medical treatment. Researchers estimate that for each case of salmonella reported, there are 26 more cases not reported.
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