Salmonella alert: Bird and cat cases raise human health risk

The Swedish public broadcaster SVT reported the detection of salmonella in small birds in Piteå, in northern Sweden. In this area, cases of infected cats have also been noted, likely due to them consuming dead birds. This situation increases the likelihood of the bacteria being transmitted to humans.

Maria Isomursu from the Finnish Food Authority explains that cats can contract salmonella by eating dead birds. Veterinarian Henrik Uhlhorn recommends not feeding birds and keeping cats indoors to reduce the risk of infection.

As interia.pl highlights, the phenomenon of birds being infected with salmonella is not limited to northern Sweden. Isomursu notes that similar outbreaks occur in Finland, especially during the winter months. Affected species include redstarts and greenfinches.

The researcher emphasises that caution should be exercised if a dead bird is found in the garden. It's important to maintain good hand hygiene after contact with a cat and when cleaning a litter box. In the instance of finding a large number of dead birds, they should be sent to the Finnish Food Authority.

Salmonella is present in both wild and farm animals. Humans can become infected through food products derived from infected animals or direct contact with such animals.

Symptoms usually appear 6 hours to 6 days after infection and typically last 4 to 7 days. In some people, particularly children, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems, the infection can be more severe and lead to dehydration or other complications.

How to prevent Salmonella infections:

• Thoroughly cook meat, especially poultry, until the internal temperature reaches 74°C.
• Avoid consuming raw eggs.
• Regularly wash hands, especially after contact with raw meat, eggs, or animals.
• Avoid cross-contamination of food by keeping raw meat separate from ready-to-eat products.