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Harmful Bacteria on Reptiles

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    Salmonella

    • Salmonella is a bacteria carried by many reptiles that is harmful to both adults and children. The bacteria are found worldwide in cold- and warm-blooded animals and can infect in a variety of ways. Unclean food, excretions from sick or infected people or animals, polluted waters, improperly thawed fowl and reptiles (particularly turtles, tortoises, and snakes). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 6 percent of all U.S. salmonella cases can be traced back to reptiles or amphibians.

    Infection

    • Salmonella infections are easily transferred between animals and humans. The bacteria commonly lives in the intestines of humans and animals, but is dangerous when ingested and enters the stomach. Typical symptoms of salmonella infection include diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps. These symptoms may develop as early as twelve hours into the infection and can last anywhere from four to seven days. Most healthy adults recover without specific treatment. However, in some cases the diarrhea caused by the infection can be dehydrating and require medical attention. Bacteremia can also be a complication if the bacteria enters your bloodstream and infects your body tissue.

    Prevention

    • Some states have outlawed many reptile pets as a precaution against salmonella infection. The import or sale of small turtles (with shells of less than 4 inches) have been banned in the United States. it's important to take precaution any time you are handling a reptile or keeping a reptile as a pet. Always wash your hands after coming in contact with excrement or handling the reptiles and never bring small reptiles into a home where infants are present.

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