Recent Salmonella Outbreaks Linked to Pet Bearded Dragons

Did you know bearded dragons and other reptiles can carry Salmonella germs even if they look healthy? You can get sick from touching your bearded dragon or items in its environment and then touching your mouth or food and swallowing these germs.

Recent Salmonella outbreaks across 8 different states have been linked to pet bearded dragons. Almost half of the sick people are less than 1 year old. Learn how you can keep yourself and your kids healthy around pet bearded dragons.

Wash your hands

• Always wash your hands after playing with, feeding, or cleaning up after your bearded dragon.
• Running water and soap are best for hand washing, but you can use hand sanitizer until running water and soap are available.

Handle safely

• Don’t kiss or snuggle your bearded dragon
• Don’t eat or drink around your bearded dragon.
• Don’t allow children younger than 5 years old to have direct contact with your bearded dragon.

Pick the right pet

• Bearded dragons and other reptiles are not recommended for children younger than 5, adults 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems. These people are more likely to get a serious illness from germs that reptiles can carry.