Can people catch infections from hamsters?

Hi Brooke. I've had dwarf hamsters as pets for years, and handle them constantly. I have never heard of people catching anything like you are describing from them, and nothing has every happened to me. Of course, as with all animal contact, i do wash my hands really good every time i handle them, or clean their cages. If you're worried about it, just call a vet's office, and ask them. They usually are more then willing to answer questions over the phone. I've done it many times, and they have always been very helpful. Like i said, always make sure you wash really good after cleaning their cage, or touching them, because i know you can get sick from not doing that. Good luck :-)