WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued an investigation notice regarding multistate outbreaks of Salmonella infections attributed to small turtles. This outbreak has affected individuals across 21 states, with a notable impact on young children.
The CDC has reported 51 cases of Salmonella infection, with 23 individuals requiring hospitalization. Fortunately, no deaths have been recorded. The outbreak is particularly concerning as it predominantly affects children; 17 of the cases involve children under five years old, and 10 involve infants under one year old.
Federal law prohibits the sale and distribution of turtles with shells less than 4 inches long. This regulation aims to prevent illnesses and outbreaks linked to these small turtles. Despite this ban, some online retailers, pet stores, and roadside markets continue to sell them, posing significant health risks.
Salmonella bacteria can cause serious illness. Symptoms typically appear 6 hours to 6 days after exposure and include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. While most people recover within a week without treatment, the infection can be severe, particularly for young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
The CDC advises that pet owners should only purchase turtles with shells longer than 4 inches from reputable sources. Proper hygiene practices, such as washing hands after handling turtles, are essential to prevent infection. Additionally, pet turtles should not be released into the wild; instead, owners should contact local pet stores or reptile rescues if they can no longer care for their pet.
Salmonella infections require vigilance and responsible pet ownership to mitigate risks. The CDC’s investigation is ongoing, and public health officials continue to monitor the situation to prevent further cases. If you have questions about cases in your state, contact your local health department for more information.
This outbreak underscores the importance of adhering to federal regulations and taking preventative measures to ensure public health and safety.
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