Recommendations for Preventing Transmission of Salmonella from Reptiles to Humans

Keeping any pet poses health risks, whether it's a dog, cat, bird, or reptile. While occurring in far fewer instances than dog bites (or other pet-related injuries and illnesses), reptile-associated salmonellosis does pose a risk to anyone who keeps or handles reptiles and amphibians.

Many organizations would have you believe reptile-associated salmonella is such a risk that possession of reptiles by the general public should be banned or significantly restricted. The CDC does not make that statement. By following the recommendations below you can dramatically decrease the risk of infection to yourself and your family.

CDC recommendations

• Pet store owners, veterinarians, and pediatricians should provide information to owners and potential purchasers of reptiles about the risk for acquiring salmonellosis from reptiles.
• Persons should always wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling reptiles or reptile cages.
• Persons at increased risk for infection or serious complications of salmonellosis (e.g., children aged less than 5 years and immunocompromised persons) should avoid contact with reptiles.
• Pet reptiles should be kept out of households where children aged less than 5 years or immunocompromised persons live. Families expecting a new child should remove the pet reptile from the home before the infant arrives.
• Pet reptiles should not be kept in child care centers.
• Pet reptiles should not be allowed to roam freely throughout the home or living area.
• Pet reptiles should be kept out of kitchens and other food-preparation areas to prevent contamination. Kitchen sinks should not be used to bathe reptiles or to wash their dishes, cages, or aquariums. If bathtubs are used for these purposes, they should be cleaned thoroughly and disinfected with bleach.

kingsnake.com supports the CDC recommendations and asks that you not only follow them, but you make sure that your local breeder, dealer, and pet store are aware of these recommendations as well. Education is the key to keeping the hobby of keeping reptiles and amphibians a safe and enjoyable hobby for everyone.