Salmonella Outbreak Links to Small Turtles in Eastern U.S; CDC Warns of Health Risks

The CDC warned of Salmonella outbreaks in parts of the U.S. due to small turtles. At least 26 illnesses of the bacterial disease were linked to Salmonella.

The CDC is investigating the current outbreak of Salmonella due to small turtles. According to CDC, Americans should stay alert for possible signs of Salmonella:

• Diarrhea for more than three days
• Vomiting
• Signs of dehydration
• Fever
• Dizziness

People can feel the symptoms 12 hours or 96 hours after being exposed to infection.

Small turtles, less than four inches, could bring salmonella germs that can harm people. The germs can spread in the animals' droppings. People can likely become sick if they get exposed.

Furthermore, buying turtles under four inches is not advisable because it is against federal law.

Salmonella outbreak due to small turtles

(Photo : by CHAIDEER MAHYUDDIN/AFP via Getty Images)
A stock photo of a small turtle. The latest report warned of salmonella bacterial disease due to small turtles. About 26 illnesses were reported due to the Salmonella outbreak in parts of the U.S., based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Based on recent reports, the outbreak was detected in parts of the Eastern U.S., California and Georgia. The outbreak was linked to small turtles, and outbreak cases reached:

• 26 illnesses were reported
• Nine hospitalizations

Small turtles can likely bring many illnesses that can cause human health risks.

In March, the CDC also investigated the salmonella outbreak due to flour, adding that at least three people were hospitalized. The report warned of avoiding consuming raw batter or dough, which could likely have germs.

According to the Minnesota Department of Health, the U.S. records about 40,000 cases of salmonella yearly.

Furthermore, homeowners should properly cook the dough in making cookies to avoid bacterial disease.

Meanwhile, the diarrhea linked to salmonella bacteria could last up to 10 days. Other causes of the disease are eating undercooked eggs, fruits or vegetables.

Animals can possibly transmit the salmonella bacteria to other animals, including pets. The infection can become dangerous if it is left untreated.

Also Read: Incubating Sea Turtles Likely to Suffer from Microplastics Impact on Sand Temperatures

Staying safe from salmonellosis infection

People should stay updated with the latest reports of salmonella outbreaks in their communities and the possible infections from small turtles or other contaminated products.

Homeowners can quickly kill the bacteria by properly cooking the raw food. Here are other safety reminders to prevent the outbreak.

Stay clean and wash your hands

• Homeowners should wash their hands properly. Using soap and sanitizers can help kill the bacteria, especially for children.
• Parents should also check if their children always wash their hands, particularly when exposed to viruses or germs.
• If you have turtles, it is best to regularly clean the tank, the pet's feces and the feeders to ensure it is clean from germs.

Cook all raw food properly

• Homeowners could separate all the raw food inside the refrigerator as much as possible. They should also wash and clean the kitchen.
• Cooking raw food can kill the bacteria.

Related Article: Small Turtles Sold Online in U.S. Raising Concerns Since Having Them As Pets Cause Health Risks

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