People – Puppies, beacons of cuteness and adorability, could also be sickening people across the country, according to a recent report. On Tuesday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a notice to dog lovers as well as the rest of the general public about 30 cases of people becoming ill in 13 U.S. states. The reported sicknesses, which have thus far resulted in four hospitalizations and zero deaths, are believed to be linked to those who had recently come in contact with puppies. Some of the states impacted include Minnesota, Ohio, Nevada, Utah, and Kentucky, according to the report. Comparing the current situation to a similar multi-state outbreak between 2016 and 2018,

the CDC believes the culprit behind the infections is Campylobacter bacteria, which can be carried by dogs that otherwise seem healthy and clean. To prevent catching the illness, the CDC suggests thoroughly washing one’s hands after touching a dog, and also after cleaning up after the animals. It is also recommended to not let pups lick around a person’s face or mouth, as well as any open wounds or broken skin. Noticeable indicators of a puppy carrying the illness include an apparent sluggishness, lack of appetite and abnormal breathing, says the CDC. Symptoms among humans include bloody diarrhea, fever stomach cramps, lasting for about one week and often treatable with antibiotics in severe instances. READ MORE