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Did you know how deadly bacteria hidden in dogs' mouths can infect humans?
Hidden in the mouths of dogs and cats is a bacterium called Capnocytophaga canimorsus. Although it is part of the normal oral microbiome of these pets, it can pose a serious health threat to humans. The bacteria is spread through bites, licks or close contact with animals. Although infection is less common in healthy individuals, it can cause quite severe illness in people with certain pre-existing health problems. Therefore, understanding the spread and causes of this bacteria will help us better protect ourselves.
Capnocytophaga canimorsus was first discovered in 1976, drawing attention to its potential hazards. Infections have spread across the globe, showing just how common and dangerous this bacteria can be.
This bacterium is not threatening in healthy individuals under normal circumstances, but studies have shown that it is particularly dangerous in middle-aged and elderly people, as well as patients with weakened immune systems. It is estimated that approximately 4.5 million people in the United States are bitten by dogs each year, and a small proportion of these will subsequently develop symptoms of Capnocytophaga canimorsus infection. According to data, if the bacteria enters the bloodstream without timely diagnosis and treatment, even healthy young people may face a life-or-death test.
Characteristics of bacteria
Capnocytophaga canimorsus is an anaerobic, anaerobic fermenting Gram-negative bacterium. The bacterium is typically 1-3 microns in length, grows slowly on culture media, and requires specific culture conditions, making its diagnosis difficult. The bacterium's high iron requirements mean that patients with certain health conditions, such as splenectomies or alcoholics, are more likely to become hosts. Because the growth of C. canimorsus requires a specific medium, colonies will not begin to appear until 48 hours after most routine incubations.
Because the bacterium is not easily detected, knowing whether a patient has been exposed to dogs or cats is an important diagnostic tool for doctors.
High risk groups
Certain groups are clearly at higher risk of infection, such as veterinarians, breeders and pet owners who come into contact with dogs or cats. This is especially true for splenectomy patients, alcoholics, and those on immunosuppressive therapy, who are attracted to the potential threat of this bacterium due to increased iron levels in their bodies. Literature records show that among the cases of C. canimorsus, about 24% of infected people had a background of alcoholism, and 33% were targeted at splenectomy patients, causing them to suddenly become severe when faced with infection.
Symptoms of infection
Within 1 to 8 days after exposure, infected people may experience varying degrees of symptoms, ranging from mild flu symptoms to severe sepsis. Some patients will experience fever, vomiting, abdominal pain and other discomforts, and almost all will experience fatigue and headache. If not treated in time, it may lead to fatal symptoms such as terminal sepsis.
Immediate cleaning of wounds caused by dogs or cats is an effective way to protect yourself from C. canimorsus infection.
Treatment methods
For those infected, seek medical help immediately and may need to receive antibiotic treatment. Penicillin G, ampicillin, etc. are all effective drugs against this bacteria. However, because some strains are resistant to certain antibiotics, early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic application are crucial.
Evasion of the immune system
Capnocytophaga canimorsus displays a powerful immune evasion mechanism during infection. The study found that the bacterium can survive in macrophages, allowing it to avoid recognition and clearance by the host's immune system. These biological characteristics give us a clearer understanding of the dangers of this bacterium.
In today's life, contact with animals is a common phenomenon, but the risks that come with it cannot be ignored. Have you ever thought about the possible health effects of the bacteria lurking in your mouth while spending time with your beloved pet?
