The CDC has warned people to not 'kiss or cuddle your turtle' after a salmonella outbreak linked to small turtles has sickened at least 26 people across 11 states.
The Centers for Disease Control's Tom Harkin Global Communications Center is pictured in Atlanta in this undated image.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has warned people to not "kiss or cuddle your turtle" after a salmonella outbreak linked to small turtles has sickened at least 26 people across 11 states.of salmonella linked to small turtles after dozens of people have fallen ill in recent months, according to the CDC.
"Despite the ban, these turtles can sometimes be found illegally online and at stores, flea markets, and roadside stands," continued the CDC. "Pet turtles of any size can carry Salmonella germs in their droppings even if they look healthy and clean. These germs can easily spread to their bodies, tank water, and anything in the area where they live and roam.
While most people recover without treatment after four to seven days, some people -- most often children younger than 5-years-old, adults over the age of 65, or those with weakened immune systems -- may have a more severe experience with the illness and require medical attention or even hospitalization.
Only buy turtles with shells longer than four inches and buy them from a reputable pet store, the CDC warns, since "reputable pet stores do not sell turtles with shells less than 4 inches long."
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