The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently issued a warning about a salmonella outbreak that has been linked to small turtles in 21 states across the United States. The outbreak has affected a total of 51 people, with 38 of them contracting the Salmonella Stanley strain and 13 individuals becoming infected with the Salmonella Poona strain. The CDC is currently investigating the source of the infections and has found that a significant number of those affected had recently come into contact with tiny pet turtles.
According to the CDC, most of the patients obtained their turtles from street vendors, online retailers, or souvenir shops. The agency is urging the public to be cautious when purchasing small turtles with shells less than 4 inches long, as these creatures are known to carry salmonella bacteria. In fact, samples from some of the turtles have been found to match the bacteria type found in the infected owners.
The majority of the patients affected by the outbreak were children, with the ages of those diagnosed ranging from younger than 1 year old to 78 years old, with an average age of 8 years old. Thirty-five percent of the patients were younger than 5 years of age, highlighting the vulnerability of young children to salmonella infections.
Symptoms of salmonella infection include diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, headache, vomiting, and nausea. Most patients experience these symptoms within six hours to six days after being infected, and the symptoms typically last for four to seven days. While most people recover from salmonella infections without the need for medical intervention, the infection can cause more severe disease in children and adults, leading to hospitalization and the need for antibiotics.
Dr. Edward Liu, chief of infectious diseases at the Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center, emphasized that salmonella can be transmitted by reptiles and turtles. He advised pet owners to wash their hands thoroughly after handling their turtles and to keep the pet area and supplies clean to prevent the spread of bacteria. Additionally, he warned against allowing small children to kiss turtles, as this behavior poses a higher risk of infection.
In order to prevent further infections, the CDC recommends that owners of pet turtles take precautions such as washing their hands after handling the reptile and avoiding the purchase of small turtles with shells less than 4 inches long. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has prohibited the sale and distribution of these turtles as pets by law, and some states, like New Jersey, have implemented bans on the sale of turtles and tortoises as pets.
As the CDC continues to investigate the source of the salmonella outbreak, it is important for the public to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families from infection. By following the CDC’s guidelines and avoiding contact with small turtles, individuals can help prevent the spread of salmonella and reduce the risk of becoming ill.
Impact of the Outbreak
The salmonella outbreak linked to small turtles has had a significant impact on the affected individuals and their families. With 51 people infected across 21 states, the outbreak has raised concerns about the safety of keeping small turtles as pets. The fact that most of the patients were children underscores the importance of educating the public about the risks associated with handling these animals.
Prevention and Safety Measures
In light of the salmonella outbreak, it is crucial for pet owners to take proactive steps to prevent the spread of bacteria and protect themselves and their families. Washing hands thoroughly after handling turtles, avoiding contact with small turtles, and keeping pet areas clean are essential practices to reduce the risk of infection. By following these guidelines, individuals can help prevent the spread of salmonella and ensure the safety of their loved ones.
Conclusion
The CDC’s warning about the salmonella outbreak linked to small turtles serves as a reminder of the importance of practicing proper hygiene and safety measures when handling pets. By taking precautions such as washing hands after contact with turtles and avoiding the purchase of small turtles with shells less than 4 inches long, individuals can reduce their risk of infection and protect themselves from salmonella. As the investigation into the outbreak continues, it is crucial for the public to remain informed and vigilant in order to prevent further cases of illness.
