Public health authorities in Canada are currently investigating a salmonella outbreak that has been linked to contact with snakes and feeder rodents. The outbreak, which began at least two years ago, has resulted in 70 confirmed cases of salmonella, with 10 individuals hospitalized and one fatality attributed to the infection.

The cases have been reported in eight provinces across Canada, with individuals falling ill between February 2022 and February 2024. Many of those affected had direct or indirect contact with the animals, while some individuals became sick despite not having direct physical contact with the snakes or rodents, but living in the same households where the animals were kept.

Despite extensive investigations, a single common supplier of the snakes or feeder rodents has not been identified. Genome sequencing has revealed that cases dating back to 2022 were caused by the same outbreak strain identified in illnesses reported in 2023 and 2024, indicating an ongoing and persistent issue.

The Public Health Agency of Canada has emphasized that symptoms of salmonella infection typically develop between six and 72 hours after exposure to the bacteria, and may include fever, vomiting, headache, and abdominal cramps. The agency also highlighted the potential for transmission through contact with reptiles and rodents, their food, and their environments, underscoring the importance of proper hand hygiene to prevent infection.

This salmonella outbreak serves as a reminder of the health risks associated with interactions with certain animals and the importance of vigilant hygiene practices. Public health authorities continue to investigate the source of the outbreak and are urging individuals to exercise caution when handling reptiles and rodents to mitigate the risk of salmonella infection.