11 countries Salmonella outbreak On Friday, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warned of an association with baby turtles.
The health organization said that at least 26 cases of illness had been reported, and nine hospitalizations. The outbreak is spreading across the country. Tennessee, with six cases, has been hardest hit. There are also cases in Missouri, Illinois, Ohio, Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, California, Pennsylvania and New York.
The first case was reported in late October last year. New cases have been reported almost every month since then, with six cases reported in July.
“The actual number of patients in this outbreak is likely to be much higher than the number reported, and the outbreak may not be limited to states with known illnesses,” the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said. “This is because many people recover without medical attention and are not tested for salmonella.”
Separate officials announced Salmonella prevalence associated with baby turtles In July last year. Pet turtles of any size can carry salmonella, even if they appear healthy and clean.
According to the CDC, it is illegal to sell turtles with shells less than 4 inches long as pets because they cause many diseases, especially in children. They are often sold illegally online and in stores, flea markets, and roadside kiosks.
People can get sick from touching a turtle or anything in its habitat, then touching their mouth or food with unwashed hands, and ingesting salmonella germs.
The CDC recommends that those who have pet turtles wash their hands after handling and feeding the animals. Avoid kissing or snuggling with turtles. Turtles should also be kept away from the kitchen and other places where people eat, store, or prepare food.
Owners who no longer wish to have their pet tortoise should not release the animal into the wild; It can disrupt wildlife and may be prohibited by law, depending on the state. Turtle owners should contact a local reptile rescue organization, animal shelter, or pet store for options for safely rehoming their turtle.
Symptoms of salmonella can include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, according to the CDC. Symptoms begin six hours to six days after infection and last four to seven days. Salmonella bacteria cause about 1.35 million infections, 26,500 hospitalizations and 420 deaths in the United States each year.
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