Puppies being sold by national pet store chain Petland have passed along infections to people in seven states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Petland puppies were linked back to 39 cases of human Campylobacter infections, which causes:
- Bloody diarrhea
- Fever
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Campylobacter is spread through contact with dog feces, but it can't spread person-to-person. Nine people have been hospitalized from the outbreak.
Of the 39 infected, 12 were Petland workers and 27 recently bought or visited a Petland puppy. The following states are affected:
- Florida
- Kansas
- Missouri
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- Tennessee
- Wisconsin
The CDC says pet owners should wash their hands often and contact a veterinarian if a puppy looks sick or sluggish. They also advise against letting puppies lick your face.