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Multistate Outbreak of Human Salmonella Cotham and Salmonella Kisarawe Infections Linked to Contact with Pet Bearded Dragons (Final Update)

Posted August 20, 2014 11:15 AM ET

This investigation is over. However, reptiles continue to be an cause of human Salmonella infections in the United States. More information about Salmonella from reptiles and the steps people can take to reduce their risk of infection is available.

Highlights

  • Read the Advice to Pet Owners »

  • This investigation is over; however, the illnesses linked to contact with pet bearded dragons are expected to continue at a low level.

    • Reptiles can be carrying Salmonella bacteria but appear healthy and clean and show no signs of illness.
    • Pet owners might be unaware of the risk of Salmonella infection from bearded dragons.
  • It is important to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water right after touching reptiles or anything in the area where they live and roam.
    • Simple tips on how to enjoy your pet reptile and protect yourself and your family from illness is available in English and en Español.
  • A total of 166 persons infected with the outbreak strains of Salmonella Cotham (160 persons) or Salmonella Kisarawe (6 persons) were reported from 36 states since February 21, 2012.
    • 59% of ill persons were children 5 years of age or younger.
    • 37% of ill persons were hospitalized. No deaths were reported.
  • Epidemiologic, laboratory, and traceback findings linked this outbreak of human Salmonella infections to contact with pet bearded dragons purchased from multiple stores in different states.
    • Bearded dragons are popular pet lizards that come in a variety of colors.
  • CDC’S NARMS laboratory conducted antibiotic resistance testing on Salmonella Cotham isolates collected from ten ill persons and two bearded dragons infected with the outbreak strain.
    • Nine (90%) of the ten isolates collected from ill persons were pansusceptible (susceptible to all antibiotics tested).
    • One (10%) of the ten isolates collected from ill persons was resistant to ceftriaxone, an antibiotic used to treat serious Salmonella infections.
    • The two isolates collected from infected bearded dragons were both pansusceptible.

Outbreak Summary