NEW YORK (PIX11) – Some 15 cases of salmonella illness were linked to bearded dragon pets in nine states including New York, according to the CDC.
The illnesses sent four people to the hospital but did not cause any deaths, officials said. The majority of illnesses were children under 5 years old, and four of the cases were in New York, officials said. The others were in Ohio, Tennessee, Georgia, Iowa, North Carolina, Texas, Oklahoma and California.
“Bearded dragons can carry Salmonella germs in their droppings even if they look healthy and clean. These germs can easily spread to their bodies and anything in the area where they live and roam,” according to the CDC.
The first illness was reported in January, and the most recent in mid-May. Now, public health officials are collecting data in several states to understand the scope of the outbreak.
Bearded dragon owners should wash their hands after touching or feeding their pet, especially before holding or feeding a baby. Children under 5 years old should not interact with bearded dragons, officials warned.
When handling a bearded dragon, do not kiss or snuggle the pet, or eat or drink around it, officials said. Supplies like toys, feeders, food and water should remain outside of the house.
Emily Rahhal is a digital reporter from Los Angeles who has covered New York City since 2023. She joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of her work here and follow her on Twitter here.
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