The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is cautioning individuals about the potential risks associated with kissing small turtles, as this loving gesture can lead to salmonella infections.
In a recent investigation notice published by the CDC on Wednesday, they reported that 26 people in 11 states have been infected with salmonella due to an outbreak linked to small turtles. Out of those 26 patients, nine had to be hospitalized.
“Please refrain from kissing or snuggling your turtle, and avoid eating or drinking around it,” advised the health agency in their notice, emphasizing that turtles with shells less than four inches long are known carriers of the salmonella bacteria.
“This behavior can result in the transfer of salmonella germs to your mouth, potentially causing illness,” they added.
Furthermore, the CDC strongly recommends that individuals under the age of 5, adults over the age of 65, and those with weakened immune systems should not have pet turtles. These groups of people are more susceptible to serious illnesses associated with the germs carried by the animals.
“Even seemingly healthy and clean pet turtles, regardless of their size, can harbor salmonella germs in their droppings,” the notice explained. “These germs can easily spread to their bodies, tank water, and their immediate surroundings.”
“One can become ill by touching a turtle or any object in its environment and subsequently touching their mouth or food without properly washing their hands, which can result in the ingestion of salmonella germs,” warned the CDC.
Salmonella is a type of bacteria that annually causes over 1.3 million infections, leading to 26,500 hospitalizations and 420 deaths in the United States. While raw and uncooked food products are the most common sources of salmonella, small turtles should also be considered a potential carrier.
Common symptoms of salmonella include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, with an onset typically occurring between six hours to six days after infection. The illness typically lasts for four to seven days, according to the CDC.
Copyright 2023 Nexstar Media Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
