Two dogs in New Jersey were found to have tested positive for an extensively drug-resistant bacterial strain last year, a strain that caused a deadly outbreak across multiple states in humans. The strain was spread through contaminated artificial eye drops manufactured in India. The outbreak led to infections in at least 81 people across 18 states, resulting in severe consequences including vision loss, surgical removal of eyeballs, and fatalities.
The revelation about the infected dogs was presented at a conference hosted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The concerning aspect is that the deadly outbreak strain has now made its way into different parts of the US, raising the potential for new infections in unexpected places.
Interestingly, the two dogs in New Jersey had not been exposed to the contaminated eye drops linked to the outbreak. Furthermore, their owners did not recall using the drops, nor did they report any other potential exposures that could explain the infections. One of the dogs had received eye drops previously, but they were not from the affected brand. The only commonality between the two dogs was that they were both treated at the same veterinary hospital, which did not stock the outbreak-associated eye drops.
The infections in the dogs were detected between March and June 2023 during routine examinations for unrelated health issues. Swabs taken from the dogs’ ears and lungs revealed bacteria with unusual drug-resistance features. Genetic sequencing of these bacteria revealed a striking similarity to the strain responsible for the deadly eyedrop outbreak.
Despite extensive investigation, health authorities were unable to pinpoint exactly how the dogs became infected. Shared exposures at the veterinary hospital were considered, but subsequent testing at the hospital did not yield any evidence of the outbreak strain.
An infection control assessment at the veterinary hospital revealed several gaps, including issues with hand hygiene, personal protective equipment use, and cleaning procedures. Although the exact mode of transmission remains unclear, it is suspected that the dogs were either exposed to a contaminated product or acquired the infection through secondary transmission at the hospital.
While both dogs have since recovered, there is concern about the potential for lingering bacteria on the animals or within their households. Health authorities have advised the owners to remain vigilant and inform their healthcare providers about the risk of future transmission. Additionally, precautions should be taken to prevent the spread of the bacteria to other pets or individuals.
