As a devoted pet enthusiast and science aficionado, it’s crucial to stay informed about potential health risks associated with our beloved animal companions. The recent findings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shed light on a concerning issue: kissing hedgehogs can actually make you sick. Yes, you heard it right!
Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty details. Since October 2018, there have been reported cases of 11 individuals contracting a rare strain of Salmonella. Surprisingly, almost all of them had one thing in common – prior contact with a hedgehog. The culprit? Salmonella lurking in these spiky creatures.
Now, before you panic and bid farewell to your hedgehog pal, let’s understand how this bacterium spreads. Hedgehogs can harbor Salmonella in their droppings, leading to potential contamination of their bodies, surroundings, and even their favorite toys and bedding. This bacterium poses a risk to us humans, especially when we come in contact with the animals or their habitats.
This isn’t the first rodeo for hedgehogs and Salmonella. Back in 2013, a similar outbreak affected 26 individuals across 12 states. It’s not just hedgehogs; turtles, lizards, and snakes can also transmit Salmonella, amplifying the importance of being cautious around exotic pets.
While the symptoms of Salmonella infection can be unsettling, here’s a glimmer of hope – most individuals recover within a week with proper home care. The typical symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. However, prevention is always better than cure, and when it comes to your prickly companion, here are some precautions recommended by the CDC:
- Always wash your hands after interacting with, feeding, or handling your hedgehog.
- Avoid intimate gestures like kissing or cuddling your hedgehog near your face.
- Keep hedgehogs out of spaces like kitchens where food is prepared or stored.
- When cleaning hedgehog habitats or supplies, opt for outdoor cleaning and strictly avoid the kitchen area.
Furthermore, certain individuals are more vulnerable to severe repercussions of Salmonella infection, such as children under 5, adults over 65, and those with weakened immune systems. For households with members falling into these categories, it might be prudent to consider a different pet option for their safety and well-being.
Remember, being a responsible pet owner goes beyond just providing love and care; it also entails safeguarding both your and your pet’s health. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and shower your hedgehog with affection while keeping a safe distance to ensure a happy and healthy companionship!