By Amber Roman
Jun 14, 2024, 18:51 PM EDT
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued an advisory regarding a multistate outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to bearded dragons. So far, the outbreak has affected 15 people in nine states, resulting in four hospitalizations. Fortunately, no deaths have been reported.
Affected states include California, Texas, Oklahoma, Iowa, Ohio, New York, Tennessee, North Carolina and Georgia. Of these, New York has recorded the highest number of cases with four people infected. California and Ohio follow closely behind with between two and three cases each. The remaining states have reported at least one case each.
It is alarming that 60% of infected people are children under five years of age. The CDC recommends avoiding keeping bearded dragons as pets for children under five years old, adults over age 65, and people with weakened immune systems. These groups are more vulnerable to serious illnesses caused by germs carried by reptiles.
Bearded dragons can carry Salmonella germs in their droppings, even when they appear healthy and clean. Transmission of the infection occurs when people touch the bearded dragon or its environment and subsequently touch their mouth or food, thus ingesting the germs. This type of transmission underscores the importance of rigorous hygiene practices.
To prevent infection, it is crucial that people wash their hands thoroughly after handling bearded dragons or their environment. It should be ensured that children under five years of age do not have contact with these reptiles and that older children also wash their hands after touching or feeding them. Maintaining a dedicated enclosure for the bearded dragon and preventing it from wandering into areas where small children crawl and play is equally essential.
Companies that sell bearded dragons also play an important role in preventing infections. They should educate customers on how to stay healthy around these animals. Additionally, it is vital that they learn and implement measures to protect both customers and employees from Salmonella infections and other diseases transmitted between animals and humans.
Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. These symptoms usually appear between six hours and six days after exposure to the bacteria. Most infected people recover without treatment within four to seven days. However, in more severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.
Specifically, children under five years old, adults over age 65, and people with weakened immune systems are at increased risk for serious complications from Salmonella infection. Therefore, it is crucial that these groups avoid contact with bearded dragons and other reptiles that may carry germs.
The current outbreak has highlighted the need for greater awareness of the health risks associated with keeping reptiles as pets. Families should be well informed about the necessary care and preventive measures to minimize the risk of infections. Proper hygiene practices and education on the safe handling of these animals are essential to protect the health of all members of the household.
Finally, the CDC continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, they urge people to follow hygiene and safety recommendations to prevent the spread of Salmonella. Health authorities emphasize the importance of reporting any symptoms of illness after coming into contact with bearded dragons, thus allowing for a rapid and effective response to any potential cases of infection.
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