Deadly Bacterial Outbreak Linked to Contaminated Eye Drops Spreads to Dogs in New Jersey
Two dogs in New Jersey tested positive last year for a highly drug-resistant bacterial strain that caused a deadly outbreak in humans across multiple states. The strain was spread in the US through contaminated artificial eye drops manufactured in India. At least 81 people were infected across 18 states, resulting in 14 people losing their vision, four undergoing eyeball removal surgeries, and four deaths.
The dogs, owned by separate individuals, were not known to have used the implicated eye drops. The connection between their infections remains unclear, as neither owner reported using the drops or having any relevant exposures. One dog had previously received different eye drops, but not the outbreak-associated brand. Both dogs were treated at the same veterinary hospital, where their infections were discovered during unrelated medical procedures.
The infections were detected between March and June 2023 when samples from the dogs were sent to a veterinary laboratory in Pennsylvania. Genetic analysis revealed similarities between the bacteria found in the dogs and the outbreak strain, prompting an investigation by the CDC and state health authorities.
While the exact source of infection could not be pinpointed, shared exposures at the veterinary hospital were considered. An assessment of the hospital’s infection control practices revealed deficiencies, including issues with hand hygiene, personal protective equipment use, and cleaning protocols.
Although both dogs have recovered, concerns remain about potential lingering bacteria that could spread to other animals or humans. Owners were advised to be vigilant and inform their healthcare providers about the risk. Additionally, precautions such as isolating the dogs from other animals were recommended to prevent further transmission.
The investigation underscores the challenges of controlling drug-resistant bacteria and highlights the importance of infection control measures in both human and veterinary healthcare settings.
