When People Got Sick: Salmonella Outbreak, November 2025

Key points

CDC and public health officials in several states are investigating a multistate outbreak of  Salmonella  infections linked to pet bearded dragons. Bearded dragons and other reptiles can carry Salmonella  germs that can spread to you and make you sick. Always take steps to stay healthy around your pet bearded dragon.

front view of bearded dragon

When people got sick

This chart shows when the 17 people in this Salmonella outbreak got sick.

Recent illnesses may not yet be reported as it usually takes 3 to 4 weeks to determine if a sick person is part of an outbreak. The true number of sick people in this outbreak is also likely much higher than the number reported. This is because many people recover without medical care and are not tested for Salmonella.