Multiple cases of disease that can be transmitted from dogs to humans confirmed by Iowa state department
Multiple cases of Canine Brucellosis — a disease that can be transmitted from afflicted dogs to humans and other animals — have been confirmed by an Iowa state veterinarian.
The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship revealed in a statement that the disease first originated at a small dog commercial breeding facility in Marion County, according to a CNN report.
The department stated that the animals in the facility have been placed under quarantine as the dogs undergo testing.
While the department noted the threat to pet owners is low, it warned that "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 physician."
"If pet owners have recently acquired a new, small breed dog from Marion Co., they should contact their veterinarian," the department added.
A fact sheet on the disease as published by the Iowa State University advises pet owners to "always wash your hands after touching animals" and recommends anyone handling reproductive tissues and assisting with the delivery of newborn puppies to wear protective clothing, including gloves and masks.
The university has, however, stated that human infection from the disease is rare. While infections are known to cause symptoms including fever, back pain, as well as joint pain, rare cases can involve the nervous system, eyes or heart.
Animal rescue organization AHeinz57 Pet Rescue & Transport, based in De Soto, Iowa, has so far isolated 32 dogs that were purchased at an auction from a breeder while they conduct full spectrum testing on the animals.
"We have not received any results yet," the organization wrote on Facebook. "Therefore, we have closed our shelter building for the next 30 days. This is just one more reason to ADOPT and not SHOP! Please pray for our sweet babies that were finally getting the chance to have a happy life."
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), a Brucella canis infection is a common disease of canines and is a major cause of reproductive failure. Although B canis infections are relatively uncommon in humans, many documented cases have been reported in literature and this disease is likely underreported in humans.
The Iowa Department of Public Health has urged any human health concerns to be reported to 515-281-3375 or 515-326-1616 (cell) or write to keely.coppess@iowaagriculture.gov