CDC: Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Small Turtles in Young Kids | CDC Newsroom
Washington D.C. – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to small turtles, with 51 cases reported across 21 states as of August 16, 2024. Nearly half of those affected – 23 out of 48 people with available data – have been hospitalized, raising concerns about the severity of the illness, particularly among young children.
The outbreak disproportionately impacts the youngest and most vulnerable. Seventeen of the reported cases involve children under the age of five, and ten involve infants less than one year old. The CDC investigation notice, released today, underscores the ongoing risk posed by turtles with shells less than four inches long, despite a federal ban on their sale and distribution as pets.
A 1975 federal law prohibits the sale and distribution of turtles with shells smaller than four inches, a measure enacted to curb repeated outbreaks of Salmonella infections. Although, the CDC reports that these smaller turtles continue to be sold illegally through online retailers, pet stores, flea markets, and roadside stands.
“Pet turtles of any size can carry Salmonella germs in their droppings even if they look healthy and clean,” the CDC stated. “These germs can easily spread to their bodies, tank water, and anything in the area where they live and roam. You can gain sick from touching a turtle or anything in its environment and then touching your mouth or food with unwashed hands and swallowing Salmonella germs.”
The CDC recommends that individuals only purchase turtles with shells longer than four inches from reputable pet stores or rescues. They likewise emphasize the importance of thorough handwashing after any contact with a turtle or its habitat, particularly for young children. The agency advises against releasing unwanted turtles into the wild and encourages contacting local pet stores or reptile rescues for rehoming options.
Symptoms of Salmonella infection typically include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, appearing six to six days after exposure. Whereas most individuals recover within four to seven days without treatment, severe cases can require hospitalization, particularly in children under five, adults 65 and older, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
As of this report, no deaths have been linked to the current outbreak. State health departments are continuing to investigate individual cases and the CDC has not yet announced a definitive source for the contaminated turtles. The CDC encourages anyone experiencing symptoms of Salmonella infection after contact with a turtle to contact their healthcare provider.