11 people sick with salmonella after kissing, snuggling hedgehogs

ATLANTA (Fox 32 News) - The CDC is warning that 11 people have gotten sick with salmonella from snuggling with pet hedgehogs.

The cases have been reported in eight states including Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, Maine, Nebraska, Wyoming, Colorado and Texas.

The outbreak strain of Salmonella Typhimurium was identified in samples collected from three hedgehogs in two ill patients' homes in Minnesota. The patients were all interviewed and 91% reported that they had been in contact with a hedgehog.

One person has been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported.

Hedgehogs can carry salmonella even if they appear healthy. The CDC says you should never kiss or snuggle hedgehogs.