The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has launched an investigation into a series of Salmonella outbreaks that have been traced back to an unlikely source: bearded dragons. These popular pet reptiles have been linked to 15 reported cases of Salmonella across nine states, including California, Iowa, Oklahoma, Texas, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, Ohio, and New York.
Fortunately, there have been no deaths reported, but four individuals have required hospitalization due to the severity of their symptoms. Bearded dragons, like many reptiles, can harbor Salmonella bacteria in their feces. This bacteria can then be transmitted to humans through direct or indirect contact with the animal or its environment. Simple actions, such as touching a bearded dragon and then inadvertently touching your mouth or handling food, can lead to ingestion of the bacteria.
Symptoms of a Salmonella infection typically include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, appearing as soon as six hours after exposure. To prevent the spread of this infection, the CDC emphasizes the importance of thorough hand washing after handling reptiles or anything in their living space. Maintaining cleanliness in areas where pets roam is also crucial.
For those seeking more detailed information on how to safely interact with pet reptiles and reduce the risk of Salmonella infection, the CDC’s website offers resources and guidelines. This incident serves as a reminder of the hidden health risks associated with pet ownership and the importance of practicing good hygiene around pets.
