Sadly turned into one of the hottest topics of this summer of 2019 (along with the terrifying fire in Gran Canaria), the outbreak of listeriosis produced by the consumption of meat contaminated with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes already affects 175 people in our country , According to data from the Center for the Coordination of Health Alerts and Emergencies (Ccaes) of August 22. The figure could vary depending on the progress of the investigations. More than 500 cases are suspected.
The Ministry of Health, Consumption and Social Welfare has issued the international alert and has contacted the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Commission in case there could be cases of listeriosis outside our borders (tourists who have eaten contaminated food because these have not been exported).
At this point, we wonder , could pets suffer from listeriosis from eating contaminated meat from the La Mechá brand? The answer is yes.
In this sense, the Spanish Veterinary Business Confederation (CEVE) has asked that “under no circumstances” be given to companion animals remains of La Mechá products potentially contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes as they can cause listeriosis. We say products and not just shredded meat because the recommendation of Health is to avoid other signature preparations such as Andalusian pork rinds, loin with Sherry, loin with paprika and homemade loin with paprika.
“The bacterium Listeria monocytogenes causes infection in both humans and animals of different species that, in addition to being infected, can act as a reservoir of infection, favoring the distribution of the bacteria in the territory where they are settled and, even, to water sources. Animals can become infected by eating contaminated meat, but also by direct contact with the bacteria present in the environment ”. This is what can be read on the CEVE website.
The same thing happens in the opposite direction, if a dog or cat suffers from listeriosis, it can contaminate the home in which it lives through its feces , favoring the transmission of the disease to vulnerable people who are part of the family.
Gonzalo Guerra Flecha, a doctor specializing in the digestive system of the Digestive Diseases Medical-Surgical Center, has declared to the daily 20 minutes that the immune system of animals is strong enough to suffer serious disorders and that the problem can be avoided if the house is clean.
In any case, CEVE recommends that if your animal has had contact with residues of potentially contaminated La Mechá products or has shown symptoms of listeriosis (diarrhea), you should contact the veterinarian as quickly as possible.
