CLEVELAND, Ohio — Unlike many other salmonella outbreaks often reported, a recent health crisis is linked to a highly-social and friendly reptile.
What You Need To Know
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said a salmonella outbreak, caused by bearded dragons, is now growing
- The health organization said the outbreak, which has been going on since 2022, has now spread to 20 states, including Ohio
- The CDC said the salmonella is spread through the reptile’s fecal excrements
- According to the CDC, nearly half of all the salmonella cases caused by bearded dragons are affecting kids younger than the age of five
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said a salmonella outbreak, caused by bearded dragons, is now growing.
The health organization said the outbreak, which has been going on since 2022, has spread to 20 states, including Ohio.
“They bond to you and they’re very lovey-dovey,” said Summit County Health Commissioner Donna Skoda.
Skoda said the salmonella is spread through the reptile’s fecal excrements.
She also said families who have a bearded dragon as a pet need to be especially careful with the animals around young children.
According to the CDC, nearly half of all the salmonella cases caused by bearded dragons are affecting kids younger than the age of five years old.
“It’s because young children handle things, touch things, and they need an adult to supervise the diligent washing their hands, Skoda said.
Besides young children, Skoda also said bearded dragons don’t make good pets for older adults, because of their weakened immune systems.
