National Health Alert: Deadly Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Pet Bearded Dragons
Health authorities across the United Kingdom are urgently investigating a dangerous multistate outbreak of Salmonella bacteria connected to exotic household pets. The situation has become increasingly concerning with 17 confirmed infections nationwide and tragic consequences already reported.
According to the latest update from November 7, the outbreak has resulted in six hospitalisations and one confirmed death. Cases have been identified across 11 states: California, Arkansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Minnesota, Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, and South Carolina.
Understanding the Salmonella Risk from Reptiles
The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued crucial warnings about bearded dragons and other reptiles carrying Salmonella bacteria in their droppings. Even when these animals appear perfectly healthy and clean, they can harbour dangerous germs that easily spread to their skin, habitat, and any surfaces they contact.
'Even healthy-looking reptiles can carry Salmonella,' the CDC emphasised in their recent alert. 'It's absolutely essential to handle them safely and maintain excellent hygiene practices to prevent infection.'
This warning comes as Salmonella remains one of the leading causes of foodborne illness in the US. Official estimates suggest it infects approximately 1.35 million people annually, leading to 26,500 hospitalisations and 420 deaths each year.
Symptoms and High-Risk Groups
Infection symptoms typically appear within eight to 72 hours of exposure and include:
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Fever
- Nausea and vomiting
Medical professionals note that while warning signs generally last from a few days to a week, and most patients recover without medical intervention, certain groups face significantly higher risks.
Infants, young children, pregnant women, and older adults are particularly vulnerable to severe complications from Salmonella due to weaker immune systems. In serious cases, the bacteria can spread from the intestines into the bloodstream, potentially infecting vital organs like the brain, heart, or lungs, which may trigger the life-threatening complication sepsis.
Essential Safety Guidelines for Pet Owners
Health officials have issued specific recommendations for bearded dragon owners and those considering reptile pets:
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling bearded dragons, cleaning enclosures, or touching anything in their environment
- Avoid kissing or snuggling bearded dragons
- Keep reptiles out of kitchens and food preparation areas
- Change clothing after handling reptiles, especially before contact with infants or young children
- Clean bearded dragon supplies outdoors when possible
The CDC specifically advises that children under five, adults over 65, and immunocompromised individuals should avoid direct contact with bearded dragons entirely due to their increased vulnerability to severe illness.
For indoor cleaning necessities, use a laundry sink or bathtub rather than kitchen sinks used for food preparation, followed by thorough disinfection of the area.
The CDC further recommends that reptiles, including bearded dragons, should not be kept in households with young children, older adults, or immunocompromised individuals. Pet stores are encouraged to educate customers about safe handling practices and provide comprehensive informational materials to reduce Salmonella infection risks.
Health authorities urge anyone developing symptoms after handling a bearded dragon to immediately contact their healthcare provider and report the illness to their state health department.
