Bearded Dragons Linked to Salmonella Outbreak That Infected 44 Across 25 States

Up to 44 people across 25 states were infected with Salmonella Uganda between December 24, 2020, and December 2, 2021, according to a recent report from the CDC.

At least twenty-one of the people who became ill had previously owned or come in contact with bearded dragons. These bearded dragons were purchased online or at pet stores, according to the CDC.

(Photo : Getty Images)

CDC Warns About Keeping Bearded Dragons As Pet

In Washington and Wisconsin, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported four cases each of salmonella linked to the animal. Three cases were documented in California, Oregon, and Rhode Island, as per Outsider. 

Those who were sick ranged in age from 1 to 84 years old, but no one has died as of yet. Eight of the victims were under the age of five. A hospital visit was necessary for 15 of 37 persons who reported their medical information.

Salmonella germs can be found in the excrement of bearded dragons. According to the CDC, anyone who comes into contact with a reptile's surroundings is at risk of contracting a disease. However, this does not include its cage or food. 

Bearded dragons should not be kept as house pets by anybody under the age of five or over the age of 65, according to the CDC.

A bearded dragon should not be kept by anyone who has a damaged immune system or is otherwise at risk of an infection. People in these groups are more likely to become ill as a result of the germs carried by the critters. 

Also Read: Pet Bearded Dragons Carry Rare Form of Salmonella

 Safety Tips for Bearded Dragon Owners 

• Avoid kissing, cuddling, and eating or drinking near the pet. Salmonella can enter the body through this method and cause illness.

• Immediately wash hands with soap and water after handling or feeding a bearded dragon, and after cleaning or sanitizing the area in which it lives and roams.

• The kitchen and other locations where food is stored or prepared should be unaccessible by the pets. 

• Always take the any material that have come in contact with the animal outside before cleaning them.

(Photo : Getty Images)

Symptoms of Salmonella 

If you or someone you know has any of the following salmonella symptoms, you should see your doctor as soon as possible: 

• Fever greater than 102°F and diarrhea. 

• Persistent diarrhoea lasting more than three days without improvement 

• Diarrhea with blood.

• Vomiting so much that you are unable to keep liquids down, 

• When you notice symptoms of dehydration such as a dry mouth and throat, frequent urination, and dizziness upon standing up. 

You should still take care of yourself despite the fact that most people get better in 4 to 7 days without any therapy. The world has already entered a COVID-19 pandemic. The addition of salmonella doesn't seem appealing.

Related Article: Can Bearded Dragons Make Great Exotic Pets?

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