Source: The Oregonian
An outbreak of salmonella infections linked to pet bearded dragons has been reported by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Fifteen cases across nine states, mostly affecting children under 5, have been documented. The CDC advises against keeping bearded dragons as pets for young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals due to the higher risk of serious illness.
Four individuals have been hospitalized, but no deaths have occurred. Salmonella symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, typically lasting four to seven days. Bearded dragons can carry salmonella in their excrement, and humans can contract the infection by touching the reptiles or their environment and then touching their mouths or food without proper handwashing.
Read the full story HERE: https://www.oregonlive.com/health/2024/06/bearded-dragons-linked-to-outbreak-of-salmonella-infections-cdc-says.html