Dogs are falling sick in Iowa according to health officials who have confirmed several cases of a bacterial disease that can spread from canines to humans.
Officials confirmed “multiple cases” of Canine Brucellosis, a bacterial disease which originated from “a small dog commercial breeding facility” in Marion County, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship said in a Friday news release.
The state’s veterinarian Dr. Jeff Kaisand confirmed the cases, according to the release.
Humans can contract Brucellosis “when they are in contact with infected animals or animal products contaminated with the bacteria,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“Dog breeders, veterinary staff and anyone who comes in contact with blood, tissues and fluids during the birthing process may be at higher risk and should consult their primary care physician,” the release says. (RELATED: Heroic Border Collie Saves Chihuahua From Being Crushed By A Car)
Little dog with owner spend a day at the park playing and having fun. Shutterstock/Branislav Nenin
Following confirmation of the disease’s spread from state health officials, authorities warned those who’d “recently acquired a new, small breed dog” from Marion County to call their veterinarian, Fox News reported Monday.
“There are NO human cases in Iowa,” the Iowa Department of Public Health communication director told The Daily Caller News Foundation Tuesday. “The only cases identified have been in the dogs at the breeding facility.”
Health officers have taken custody of 32 exposed dogs, according to a Facebook post from Pet Rescue and Transport. The dogs are under quarantine and undergoing clinical testing.
This post was corrected to state the cases identified are confined to dogs.
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