How common is Capnocytophaga infection in humans?

How common is Capnocytophaga? Since 1976, when C. canimorsus was first described, approximately 200 cases of human infection have been reported worldwide, but this is likely just the “tip of the iceberg.” Because infection is not reportable, it is hard to estimate how many cases truly occur.

What bacteria is found in dog saliva?

Many Capnocytophaga germs are normal bacteria commonly found in the mouths of people, dogs, and cats. These germs sometimes cause opportunistic infections, which means under the right conditions they can cause an infection, such as in a person with a weakened immune system.

How does Capnocytophaga get infected?

Many kinds of bacteria (germs) called Capnocytophaga live in the mouths of dogs and cats. These germs do not make dogs or cats sick. Rarely, Capnocytophaga germs can spread to people through bites, scratches, or close contact from a dog or cat and may cause illness, including sepsis.

How do dogs get Capnocytophaga bacteria?

Capnocytophaga is spread through saliva. Most cases occur after a bite wound, but the bacteria can be transmitted through exposure to saliva itself, for example from a dog lick. It’s essential to practice good hygiene when it comes to dog licks, especially with children.

Does every dog have Capnocytophaga?

Most dogs and many cats have Capnocytophaga and other germs in their mouths (oral flora). These germs do not make the animals sick. Animals can be tested to see if they have Capnocytophaga germs, but a negative result may not mean the animal will always be negative – and the same is true for a positive result.

Is Capnocytophaga Canimorsus rare?

Although the bacteria are common in household pets’ mouths, overwhelming infections with Capnocytophaga canimorsus or “dog bite septicemia” are rare.

What happens if a dog licks your tongue?

05/7​Infection So as you must have guessed by now that dogs can transmit these parasites when they lick you. If these parasites infect you then it might cause rashes, itchiness, cough, stomach ache, diarrhoea, fever and fatigue.

Can you get Capnocytophaga from dog lick?

Can Capnocytophaga be cured?

Capnocytophaga infection can be treated with prescription medicine called antibiotics. Antibiotics kill bacterial germs like Capnocytophaga. It is important to call your doctor if you have been bitten by a dog or cat or believe that you might be infected with Capnocytophaga germs.

How many cases of Capnocytophaga are there?

A spokesman for the CDC, Benjamin Haynes, said in e-mail that cases of capnocytophaga infection do not have to be reported to the CDC. Still, the agency received reports of 12 cases last year. “These are likely only the most severe cases or those in which diagnosis was complicated for some reason,” he said.