Salmonella is bacteria that can manifest as a severe disease (salmonellosis) with fever, severe diarrhea, dehydration and even systemic infection. Salmonella is carried in the feces of many animals. Meat including beef, pork, milk and milk products and especially chicken and eggs can be contaminated with salmonella. Reptiles - including snakes, iguanas and especially turtles are common carriers of salmonella. Children are especially susceptible to infection from turtles and other reptiles, even without direct contact with the animal. Other animals such as cats and dogs, and wild animals including birds can also carry the salmonella bacteria in their feces. Animals infected with salmonella may have diarrhea or may not show any signs at all. Animals may be carriers of salmonella bacteria for a long period of time.

Prevention

• Wash hands well after being in contact with animals, animal products or animal wastes.
• Cook all meat thoroughly and refrigerate leftovers immediately.
• Use pasteurized milk and pasteurized or irradiated eggs especially in uncooked dishes.
• Use caution with turtles and other reptiles around children. It is not recommended that turtles be kept as pets when there are very young children in the home.

For more information, go to www.health.state.mn.us/divs/idepc/diseases/salmonellosis/index.html