US health authority warns of salmonella outbreak linked to pet reptiles.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a warning about salmonella linked to tortoises spreading across the country. The children were said to be in serious danger, with one reported dead.
The ICDC published an online investigation report on Thursday, saying the number of cases of salmonella had risen to 64 and had spread to 17 states and the District of Columbia. It says the first cases of the disease involving small tortoises were registered in August last year and have been on the rise ever since.(ads2)
In a video entitled 'Small Tortoise Trouble', the CDC provides recommendations on how to avoid infection.
Some tips include washing hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after touching an animal's tortoise and after cleaning its tank. The kitchen and other dining areas should be a safe haven for reptiles.
And don't just throw your tortoise if you don't want it, the CDC advises, but instead take it to a reptile or pet store, as letting wildlife out of the wild can disrupt wildlife and may not be allowed in some countries.
The age of people with the disease ranges from less than one year to 59 years, with an average age of six. Children under the age of five make up 45% of the offenses. About half the patients needed hospitalization. One (adult) death was reported in Pennsylvania, where the disease had an impact, the CDC said. It adds that the number of sick people is likely to be high and the outbreak may not be limited to countries with known diseases.
Domestic tortoises can carry Salmonella germs on their grass even if they look healthy and clean, the CDC said. It warns against buying tortoises from street vendors, market stalls, and online stores. Provincial law prohibits the sale of tortoises less than four inches (10.16cm) long due to the threat of infection.(ads1)
In February, there were 22 people infected with Salmonella Typhimurium in seven states - Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Maryland, New Jersey, California, Florida, and Connecticut. Many cases were reported in Pennsylvania.
Salmonellosis is a viral disease of the stomach, diarrhea is the most common disease. Other symptoms include fever, headache, nausea and vomiting. Salmonellosis can cause serious illnesses, such as blood infections, bone and joint infections, meningitis, and can be especially dangerous for young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
In May, the CDC issued a warning about vaccinating chickens, as they too can carry salmonellosis bacteria.
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