- A Salmonella outbreak linked to small turtles has spread to 11 states
- The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said turtles with shells less than 4 inches long are a known source of illness
- At least 26 illnesses have been reported, with nine hospitalizations
BETHLEHEM, Pa. — Public health officials are investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella linked to small turtles.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Pennsylvania is part of an 11-state outbreak, and at least 26 illnesses and nine hospitalizations have been reported.
The CDC said the first case was reported in late October last year, but new cases have been reported almost every month since, including six in July.
"The true number of sick people in this outbreak is likely much higher than the number reported, and the outbreak may not be limited to the states with known illnesses," the CDC said.
"This is because many people recover without medical care and are not tested for Salmonella.
"In addition, recent illnesses may not yet be reported as it usually takes three to four weeks to determine if a sick person is part of an outbreak."
The trouble with tiny turtles
A federal law bans the sale and distribution of viable turtle eggs and live turtles with a carapace length of less than 4 inches.
According to the CDC, turtles this size have caused many illnesses, especially in young children.
"Don't kiss or snuggle your turtle."The CDC
"Although any turtle can cause germs, tiny turtles are especially risky because children are more likely to handle them and get sick," the CDC website states.
The CDC is advising anyone caring for a turtle to take steps to stay healthy, including washing hands immediately after touching or feeding a turtle, or after cleaning its supplies.
"Don't kiss or snuggle your turtle," the site also states, warning it can spread germs through the mouth and make people sick.
People should not eat or drink around areas where turtles are kept, and turtles should not be kept in the kitchen or any area where food is stored or prepared.
The dangers of Salmonella
Pet turtles of any size can carry Salmonella germs in their droppings even if they look healthy and clean, the CDC warns. These germs can spread to their bodies, tank water or anything in the area where they live and roam.
People can get sick from touching the turtle or anything in its environment and then touching their mouth or food with unwashed hands and swallowing Salmonella germs.
Salmonella symptoms can include a fever, diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting and dehydration. Severe symptoms include a fever higher than 102 degrees, bloody diarrhea and dizziness.
Though most people recover without treatment after four to seven days, the CDC says children younger than 5 years, adults 65 and older and people with weakened immune systems may require medical treatment or hospitalization.
