The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have found a Salmonella coming from pet bearded dragons. Those affected number 15 people across nine states, with four needing hospital care. No lives have been lost to this outbreak It once again highlights the danger of keeping Iles as pets, especially to those in high-risk groups.
Outbreak Details
This outbreak is due to a strain named Salmonella Cotham. Through investigation the CDC has determined that the affected states are,
- New York, 4 cases
- Ohio, 3 cases
- California, 3 cases
- Iowa, 1 case
- Texas, 1 case
- Oklahoma, 1 case
- Tennessee, 1 case
- North Carolina ,1 case
- Georgia, 1 Case
The CDC estimates that actual case numbers could be potentially more extensive than what is currently reported, and they may possibly reach beyond the affected States listed.
Impacted Groups
A large number of those infected are children,
- Sixty percent are less than five years old.
- Nine on record are kindergarten aged.
Children are thus seen as highly susceptible to reptilian salmonella infections based on this high percentage.
CDC Guidelines Pet Care Recommendations
Guidance provided by CDC recommends against bearded dragons as pets for those under five years old adults older than 65 individuals with weak immune systems These demographics have an increased risk from serious diseases transmitted by reptiles A thorough hand wash after contacting or feeding your pet dragon or sanitizing their living areas.
- Avoid being too close or affectionate with your reptile.
- From not eating or drinking around them, to keeping them out of your food handling zones.
Cleanliness should be maintained, such as cleaning dragon feeders and water containers outside if possible. If these items must be cleaned inside, dedicate a laundry sink or a tub space for it and sanitize every surface used afterward.
Salmonella Symptoms
Typical salmonella infection signs include,
Diarrhea, fever over 102 degrees Fahrenheit, abdominal cramps, excessive vomiting that leads to shunning liquids and dehydration signs like a dry mouth and throat, infrequency in urination or experiencing dizziness while rising up.
The symptoms start showing within six hours to six days of getting exposed to the pathogens. Although recovery happens naturally in four to seven days’ time for most individuals. Those with weak immune systems along with young kids or aged adults might encounter more severe illness that needs medical attention.
Infection Routes & Passive Contact
Principal sources of infection based on CDC findings seem to stem from direct interaction with bearded dragons. Models also suggest indirect contact as a likely source too. One child as noted was reportedly found infected on investigation but had not been in direct contact with the reptile. This indicates he might have been exposed indirectly within his home environment.
They can contaminate their bodies and habitats with germs from Salmonella found in their stool. Hence, touching them or cleaning up after them whilst not maintaining the right hygiene could mean that these harmful bacteria are ingested.
Previous Reporting and Continuing Studies
Several warnings concerning reptile linked Salmonella outbreaks have been given prior to this event by the CDC. In 2022 for example, bearded dragons were implicated in a major outbreak which saw 44 people across 25 states fall sick, with 15 hospitalized.
In response to the current outbreak, the CDC continues to keep a close watch and advises pet owners to adhere strictly to safety procedures. The agency believes that public knowledge is important alongside abiding by cleanliness guidelines in preventing disease spread.
Summary
The recent outbreak of salmonella reported involving bearded dragons throws light on the associated health risks of owning reptiles as pets. Despite popularity amongst children especially, careful interactions and good hygiene are important, if possible, illness is to be avoided. The main goal behind the guidelines issued by CDC is protection especially for those vulnerable plus prevention of salmonella spread across broader populations.
