LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report puppies may be making people sick, including three reported cases in Nevada.
An outbreak strain of Campylobacter jejuni has been reported in 13 states and so far 30 people have been infected, according to the CDC.
"Epidemiologic and laboratory evidence indicate that puppies purchased from pet stores are the likely source of this outbreak. Many of the cases had contact with puppies or were employees at pet stores, including Petland," it said.
Some of the illnesses date back to January 2019 and people who have been infected range from 8 months to 70 years old with an infection that's resistant to multiple drugs.
Four have been hospitalized but no deaths have been reported, according to the organization, with three cases also found in Southern Nevada related to the outbreak.
The Southern Nevada Health District says the three cases involved an individual coming into contact with puppies purchased from different locations, including one from out of state.
"We need to realize that pets are not as clean as we think they are," said Dr. Dalia Wachs. “This rumor that a pet's mouth is cleaner than a human is completely wrong!”
Some of the symptoms include diarrhea, stomach cramps and fever that can last for about a week. However, people have usually recovered without antibiotics as well, according to the CDC.
Washing hands and making sure you take any new dogs to the vet for a checkup is recommended.
