An extensively drug-resistant salmonella outbreak has been linked to raw pet food and cattle.
The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has issued a public health notice stating that 40 cases have been confirmed in six provinces, including 14 in Ontario.
"Many of the individuals who became sick are children 5 years of age or younger," the agency said "Illnesses associated with this outbreak strain may be difficult to treat with commonly recommended antibiotics, if antibiotic treatment is needed.
Individuals became sick between July 2020 and September 2023, however, the outbreak is considered ongoing with recent illnesses continuing to be reported. Just under half (43 per cent) of all of the reported cases have been among children aged 5 or younger. Thirteen people have been hospitalized with the illness. No human deaths have been reported, but some sick dogs and cattle have died.
The Public Health Agency's investigation into the outbreak identified two sources - exposure to raw meat prepared for pets and contact with cattle, particularly calves.
"The outbreak is a reminder that salmonella bacteria can be found in raw pet food and in many species of animals, including dogs and cattle," the agency said. "Always use safe food handling practices when preparing, cooking, or storing raw pet food to prevent illness. Practice good hand hygiene and frequent hand washing after contact with dogs fed raw pet food, cattle, and their environments."
The agency added that additional sources of the outbreak may still be identified as its investigation continues.
Symptoms of salmonella infection typically start six to 72 hours after exposure and usually last for four to seven days. They can include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and abdominal cramps.
"People who are infected with salmonella bacteria can spread salmonella to other people several days to several weeks after they have become infected, even if they don't have symptoms," said the public health agency. "Salmonella can spread by person to person contact and contaminated surfaces."
While most people who become ill will recover after a few days without treatment, others can become severely ill and require hospitalization.
Anyone who suspects they have a salmonella infection should contact their health care provider.