Almost all reptiles carry Salmonella. They carry this bacterium in their intestinal tract and have it in their stool. The Salmonella bacterium causes extreme illness and sometimes death in humans, livestock and domesticated pets.
Salmonella is passed from reptile to human. Anything that has come in contact with the reptiles stool is contaminated. Thus includes the reptile’s food and toys.
Many of the cases of Salmonella in humans have been mild. They display symptoms of diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps. If the infection makes it to the bloodstream, bone marrow and nervous system, it will lead to extreme, possibly fatal, illness.
Reptile’s intestinal tracts cannot be cleared from Salmonella. Trying to collect the stool of the reptile to have it tested for the Salmonella bacteria is not recommended. Any attempt that has already been done to do so has been unsuccessful. If you simply hold the reptile you will not get Salmonella, but anything in contact with the reptile’s stool will cause a risk of getting the Salmonella bacteria.
To Avoid contracting Salmonella you should take the following precautions:
- Use soapy hot water after handling or holding any reptiles, reptile cages and equipment, and any reptile stool.
- Kitchen and dining room or any other area you have food should be off limits for your reptile.
- Do not have food, drink or cigarettes where the retiles are, this includes kids and baby toys, bottles and pacifiers.
- A plastic tub should be used to wash your reptile. Do not use the sinks, counters or tables for bathing your reptile.
- Do not kiss your reptile.
- Any child less than 5 years of age should not be around reptiles. Their immune system is not strong enough to fight the Salmonella bacteria.
- Anyone with a weak immune system (cold, flu, leukemia, AIDS, etc.) should avoid contact with reptiles.
- Healthy reptiles living in warm environments and are healthy are less likely to shed the Salmonella bacteria.
As any bacteria is hazardous, Salmonella bacteria is preventable. If taking the proper precautions you will find you and your reptile can stay healthy. If you suspect you have contracted the Salmonella bacteria, contact your physician. Then you will need to thoroughly clean and disinfect your house.
This should not discourage you from getting a reptile, but leave you aware of a condition that can be prevented. The reptiles make great pets, just be sure to use safety precautions when handling and caring for you reptile. It will make a better quality life for you, your family and your reptile.
