That Pet Turtle Could Carry Salmonella

Thursday, 26 April 2007

A friendly reminder from PetWalk.com and the FDA.  That cute little turtle may be carrying more than a shell! Did you know some turtles carry Salmonella?  Take care when handling the pets, as infants, small children and adults with impaired immune system are at risk of serious health risks if exposed to an animal with Salmonella.  Baby turtles are a natural host to a group of Salmonella bacteria that can cause severe illness and death.  Found in the outer skin and shell surfaces, the Salmonella can be transmitted by not washing hands properly after handling the animals. "FDA is reminding parents and others who care for children of the following: The sale of turtles with a shell less than four inches long is illegal. Exceptions to FDA's regulation include sales of these turtles intended for export only or for bona fide scientific, educational, or exhibitional purpose; Salmonella infection can be caused by contact with turtles in petting zoos, parks, child day care facilities and other locations; and It is important to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling or touching turtles and their housing. In the early 1970's, it was determined that pet turtles, particularly red-eared sliders, were responsible for an estimated 280,000 cases of salmonellosis each year in the United States. In 1975, FDA banned the sale of turtles with a shell less than four inches long as a necessary public health measure. FDA has repeatedly emphasized the risks of turtle-associated salmonellosis because of a resurgence in the sales of such turtles in the last four years. The public health impact of turtle-associated salmonellosis in humans is an estimated 74,000 cases in the United States per year. Salmonella infection can be transmitted either directly from contact with the turtle or its feces, or indirectly through the animal's water. Turtles with Salmonella usually do not appear to be sick. Their feces do not always contain the bacteria, therefore a single negative test does not prove they are Salmonella-free. Although anyone can acquire a salmonellosis infection, the risk is highest in infants, young children, the elderly, and others with lowered natural resistance to disease. Pregnancy, cancer, chemotherapy, organ transplant, diabetes, and liver problems pose particular risks. Gastrointestinal symptoms following Salmonella exposure begin in 6 to 72 hours (usually 12 to 36 hours) and generally last for two to seven days. For more information on FDA's regulation of turtles, please see the following: http://www.fda.gov/cvm/turtleregs.htm."

 

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