Tiny Turtles Linked to Multi-State Salmonella Outbreak
A recent salmonella outbreak has been traced to tiny pet turtles, affecting residents across 21 states, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Salmonella Cases on the Rise
The outbreak has resulted in 51 confirmed cases, with 38 people contracting the Salmonella Stanley strain and 13 cases of the Salmonella Poona strain. The CDC is currently investigating the source of the infection, with a significant number of cases linked to contact with small pet turtles.
High Risk for Children
Among the reported cases, 66% of those interviewed had interacted with these turtles before falling ill. The patients, ranging in age from infants to 78 years old, have an average age of 8. Alarmingly, 35% of those infected are children under the age of five.
Symptoms and Risks
Infected individuals typically experience symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, headache, vomiting, and nausea. These symptoms usually appear within six hours to six days after exposure and can last up to a week. While most cases are mild, some may require hospitalization, particularly in young children and older adults.
Preventative Measures
To prevent infection, the CDC strongly advises pet turtle owners to wash their hands thoroughly after handling the animals or cleaning their habitats. It’s also recommended to avoid purchasing small turtles with shells less than four inches long due to the increased risk they pose.
