A CDC investigation update for the multistate outbreak of human Salmonella Typhimurium infections linked to pet hedgehogs has been updated. Twenty-three people in nine states have been reported as sickened with the same strain.
According to CDC:
The number of ill persons identified in each state is as follows: Alabama (1), Idaho (1), Illinois (1), Indiana (1), Michigan (3), Minnesota (3), Ohio (5), Oregon (1), and Washington (7).
35 percent of ill persons have been hospitalized. One death associated with Salmonella infection has been reported in Washington.
39 percent of ill persons are children 10 years of age or younger.
“Epidemiologic, laboratory, and traceback findings have linked this outbreak of human Salmonella infections to contact with pet hedgehogs purchased from multiple hedgehog breeders in different states,” said CDC in the update. “It is very important to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water right after touching hedgehogs or anything in the area where they live and roam. Adults should supervise hand washing for young children.”
