Pet food recall

The Connecticut Departments of Agriculture and Public Health are encouraging safe handling of pet food after a report of human illness in Connecticut was linked to a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Infantis associated with dog food. The federal Center for Disease Control and Prevention is working with public health departments to investigate 14 human illnesses in nine states, including Connecticut that are linked to the recalled pet food. Multiple brands of dry pet food produced by Diamond Pet Foods at a single manufacturing facility in South Carolina have been linked to some of the human Salmonella infections. The Department of Agriculture has identified approximately 70 stores in the state, most of which are feed and pet supply stores, at which the various brands of Diamond Pet Food products are sold and will be conducting inspections to determine the effectiveness of the recall. Consumers should check their homes for recalled dog food products and discard them promptly. People who think they might have become ill after contact with dry pet food or with an animal that has eaten dry pet food should consult their health care providers. Humans can become ill by handling pet products contaminated with Salmonella, and by coming in contact with pets or with surfaces that have been contaminated. Hand washing is the most effective way to prevent illness. Wash hands for 20 seconds with hot running water and soap before and after handling pet foods and treats; after petting, touching, handling, or feeding pets, and especially after contact with feces; before preparing your own food and before eating.