Salmonella Outbreak Linked To Pet Bearded Dragons Reaches PA

PENNSYLVANIA — A salmonella outbreak linked to a popular pet reptile has been reported in Pennsylvania and 24 other states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The outbreak involving bearded dragons thus far has caused 44 illnesses and 15 hospitalizations. Two cases have been reported in Pennsylvania.

While those numbers might seem low, the CDC says the number of cases people probably is higher as many people recover from salmonella without seeking medical care. It also takes as long as four weeks to determine if a recent illness is part of an outbreak.

No deaths have been reported.

Even if they look healthy and clean, bearded dragons can carry salmonella germs in their droppings. The germs can easily spread to their bodies and anything in the area where they roam.

People get sick from touching their bearded dragon or anything in its environment and then touching their mouth and ingesting the germs.

The CDC advises that people should not kiss or snuggle their bearded dragon or eat and drink around it. Also, bearded dragons should be kept out of the kitchen or any other area where food is consumed, stored or prepared.

Salmonella symptoms include include fever, dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea and signs of dehydration.

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