At least 79 cases of infection with salmonella traced to dry dog food have been identified, U.S. health officials said Thursday. The last reported illness was Oct. 18, after Mars said it would permanently close the Everson, Pennsylvania, factory. The company voluntarily recalled all affected products after dry pet food was linked to two cases of the bacterial infection.

The dog food has been traced to a Mars Petcare U.S. plant in Everson, Pa. The plant is now closed, the CDC said in the Nov. 7 issue of its Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

The CDC recommends people throw out pet food from the company. Pet owners could still have the cat and dog kibble in their homes, the CDC said.

"Consumers and health departments should be aware that all dry pet food, pet treats, and pet supplements might be contaminated with pathogens such as Salmonella, and consumers should use precautions with all brands of dry pet food, treats, and supplements," the CDC report reads. He brands include Special Kitty, Pedigree and Member's Mark, among others.

Cases of infection with Salmonella from dry dog food were registered in 2006 and 2007. 40% of the people infected were children.

The disease produced by the Salmonella bacteria is called salmonellosis and for most of the infected people is known to cause diarrhea, fevera nd abdominal cramps. The illness generally lasts four to seven days and people normally choose to tough it out without a treatment.

The CDC strongly recommends that all animal owners should always wash their hands after touching pet food. Also, other recommendations referred to the pet feeding areas where children should not be allowed and infants under 5 should not touch or eat pet food, treats or supplements.