A total of 20 persons infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Typhimurium have been reported from 8 states.

The number of ill persons identified in each state is as follows: Alabama (1), Illinois (1), Indiana (1), Michigan (3), Minnesota (3), Ohio (3), Oregon (1), and Washington (7).

31% of ill persons have been hospitalized. One death associated with Salmonella infection has been reported in Washington.

45% of ill persons are children 10 years of age or younger.

Epidemiologic, laboratory, and traceback findings have linked this outbreak of human Salmonella infections to contact with pet hedgehogs purchased from multiple hedgehog breeders in different states.

It is very important to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water right after touching hedgehogs or anything in the area where they live and roam. Adults should supervise hand washing for young children.