The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta reports more cases of Campylobacter infection linked to puppies sold at Petland stores across the nation.
Two more states, Connecticut and Massachusetts, are reporting cases of people getting sick. That brings the total number of states in the outbreak to 17.
A total of 97 people have laboratory confirmed cases of Campylobacter infection. Twenty-two people have been admitted to the hospital with complications from the infection.
While Campylobacter is a fairly common bacteria among puppies and dogs, it IS unusual to see a large, multistate outbreak of human infections.
The CDC says there has been a new case confirmed in Georgia, bringing the total to two cases in our state. So far, no deaths have been reported.
Lab results show that puppies sold through Ohio-based Petland are the source of the outbreak.
Ninety percent of the people who have gotten sick reported contact with a puppy from Petland or with someone who became sick after contact with a puppy from a Petland store.
Pet owners should take steps to prevent illness when handling puppies or dogs. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water right after touching puppies or picking up their poop.