Pet turtles purchased online have been linked to a Salmonella outbreak which has sickened 15 people … [+]
Small pet turtles purchased online are responsible for sickening 15 people across 11 States with Salmonella, according to the results of a CDC investigation released today.
The CDC figured out the culprits by interviewing sick people and looking at laboratory data, finding that the small turtles with no larger than a 4 inch shell were responsible.
Despite a federal law banning the sale of these animals as pets, most of the sick people reported buying the turtles online, with over half of them reporting purchases from one particular website.
The CDC warns against buying small turtles as pets.
Five of the affected individuals have been hospitalized and there have been no recorded deaths. The main symptoms of Salmonella infection are diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps and symptoms can start anywhere between 6 hours and 6 days after exposure. Most people recover after 4-7 days with no treatment necessary, but young children under 5, elderly people and immunocompromised people are at greater risk from infection.
Many of the affected individuals are children and the CDC report also indicates that they suspect the number of people affected by the outbreak to be larger, with many people not seeking medical help and hence not getting tested for the bacteria.
Outbreaks of Salmonella caused by pet turtles are surprisingly common, hence the federal law banning the sale of small turtles with shells less than 4 inches long as pets. According to the FDA, Salmonella is commonly found on and in turtles, as well as reptiles such as geckos and bearded dragons. For them, the bacteria is a normal part of their microbiome and does not make them sick, but for humans these bacteria can be dangerous and make people very ill.
The CDC recommends that anyone who wishes to own a pet turtle only buys those with shells longer than 4 inches and procures them from reputable pet stores or rescue organizations.
Other tips from the CDC report include:
- Stay healthy around your pet turtle by always washing your hands after touching, feeding, or caring for your turtle. Adults should make sure young children are washing their hands properly.
- Don’t toss your turtle if you decide you no longer want it. Reach out to your local pet store or reptile rescue.
- Pick the right pet for your family. Pet turtles are not recommended for children younger than 5, adults aged 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems as they are more likely to get a serious illness from germs that turtles can carry.
- Not to kiss or snuggle pet turtles.
