CDC Warns of Salmonella Outbreak from Tiny Turtles
- CDC alerts about salmonella outbreak caused by tiny turtles in 21 states.
- Salmonella outbreak spreads across the U.S. due to contact with small turtles.
- CDC advises caution when handling tiny turtles to prevent infection.
A recent alert from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified tiny turtles as the source of a salmonella outbreak affecting 21 states. The outbreak has resulted in 51 confirmed infections, with 38 cases linked to the Salmonella Stanley strain and 13 to the Salmonella Poona strain. Among the 41 individuals interviewed by the CDC, 66% reported recent contact with pet turtles, highlighting a concerning trend, particularly among children. The age range of those infected spans from less than one year to 78 years, with an average age of 8. Notably, 35% of the patients are younger than five years old. Symptoms typically manifest within six hours to six days post-exposure, lasting four to seven days, and can include headache, vomiting, and nausea. Medical experts, including Dr. Edward Liu from Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center, emphasize that while salmonella is commonly associated with contaminated food, reptiles, including turtles, are also significant carriers. The CDC has issued guidelines for pet turtle owners, recommending thorough handwashing after handling the animals and maintaining cleanliness in their habitats. Additionally, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has legally prohibited the sale and distribution of turtles as pets, a measure echoed by New Jersey's ban on turtle and tortoise sales. The CDC warns that the actual number of infections may be higher, as many individuals do not seek medical attention or testing.