CDC Links Salmonella Outbreak to Small Turtles

Since October 2022, the Center for Disease Control has identified an outbreak of Salmonella infections. The agency has linked this rash of outbreaks to small turtles. There have been 26 Salmonella infections linked to turtles and nine hospitalizations. Known cases have occurred in 11 states including Tennessee, Missouri, California, Illinois, Georgia, North Carolina, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio, and Virginia. The state with the highest number of Salmonella infections linked to turtles has been Tennessee where six infections have been recorded. Symptoms of salmonella infection include diarrhea, fever, nausea, and stomach cramps.  Salmonella causes an estimated 420 deaths in the United States every year.

Source: WAVY TV 10/YouTube

Selling turtles with shells measuring under four inches as pets is illegal because they are known carriers of salmonella bacteria. Children may be especially susceptible. Unfortunately, some unscrupulous sellers may still offer these small turtles. However, it is important to remember that any illnesses are not the fault of the turtle. Additionally, turtles are not the only animals that can transmit salmonella. 

Salmonella can be transmitted to humans through contact with turtle feces. Salmonella bacteria may live in the turtles’ intestines and be released when it defecates. Since turtles kept in captivity do not have the large environment of wild turtles, Salmonella bacteria may be more present in their habitat. It may then pass to humans when they handle the turtle and then ingest the bacteria. Keeping a turtle’s habitat clean and washing hands before and after handling can greatly reduce the risk of contracting Salmonella. Handwashing is also recommended after feeding or handling anything in the turtle’s environment. The CDC recommends keeping turtles away from food and drink. Additionally, do not wash turtle equipment or tanks in the kitchen or other areas where food is handled. 

The CDC also cautions people that turtles kept in captivity should not be released into the wild. Not only is this dangerous for the turtle, but it can also disrupt local ecosystems. Instead, anyone unable to care for a turtle in their home should contact a reputable turtle rescue group. 

Turtles and other reptiles are facing population decimation around the world. The capture of wild turtles for the trade contributes to this population decline. Additionally, habitat loss and Climate change are threatening countless turtle species. Sign this petition to Help Protect Turtles! 

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