Los Angeles County Steps In to Address ‘Strep Zoo’ Outbreak in Downey

Published on April 12, 2024

LOS ANGELES—In an effort to address a bacterial outbreak at the Downey Animal Care Center, Los Angeles County officials are taking action April 12 to safeguard animals and prevent further health issues. The county’s Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC) reported Thursday an outbreak of what is known as Streptococcus Zooepidemicus, or Strep Zoo, which can pose a significant risk to dogs when multiple dogs are housed in stressful environments, such as facilities like animal shelters. The bacteria can lead to severe pneumonia in immunocompromised dogs, who can become ill very quickly with few warning signs. While there is not available vaccine against Strep Zoo, the DACC is taking measures to control the spread of the bacteria and ensure the safety of animals....