In a recent warning issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pet bearded dragons have been linked to a multistate outbreak of Salmonella infections. The outbreak has affected 15 people across nine states, including California, Georgia, Iowa, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas. Four hospitalizations have been reported but no deaths.
Bearded dragons can carry Salmonella germs in their droppings even if they appear healthy and clean. Humans can contract the infection by touching the reptile or anything in its environment followed by touching their mouth or food and then swallowing the germs.
Children under five, adults aged 65 or older, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe illnesses from Salmonella infections. Therefore, it is recommended that these groups avoid contact with bearded dragons.
To prevent Salmonella infections when handling a bearded dragon, the CDC advises washing your hands thoroughly after touching or feeding the reptile and before holding or feeding a baby or young child under five. It is also recommended to have a dedicated enclosure for your bearded dragon and keep it out of areas where children crawl and play.
The CDC has reported that 60% of the infected individuals are children under five. Therefore, it is crucial to take extra precautions when handling bearded dragons around young children.
This is not the first time bearded dragons have been linked to Salmonella outbreaks. In 2023, there was a separate outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to bearded dragons that affected at least thirty-two people and hospitalized ten people. No deaths were reported.
It is important to note that the CDC advises against keeping bearded dragons as pets for children under five, adults aged 65 or older, and people with weakened immune systems due to the risk of severe illnesses from germs carried by reptiles.
For more information on Salmonella infections and safety measures, visit the CDC's investigation notice here.
