Did you know...

• The most popular reptile pets in the United States are iguanas.
• Turtles and snakes are popular reptile pets, also.
• Iguanas, turtles, snakes and most reptiles carry the bacteria Salmonella inside their bodies.
• Iguanas, turtles, and snakes sometimes shed the bacteria Salmonella in their feces (waste).
• The type of Salmonella bacteria in these pets can cause life-threatening sickness in people.

What is Salmonella?

• Salmonella is a bacteria.
• Salmonella poisoning can cause vomiting, fever, diarrhea, and stomach cramping.
• Most cases of Salmonella poisoning come from undercooked foods.
• Reptiles may have Salmonella on their skin, cages and anything else they touch.

What should you do if you own a Reptile?

Wash your hands with warm, soapy water immediately:

• after handling any reptiles
• after touching their cages
• before eating food

Remember the Reptile Rules!

• Always be sure an adult is with you when touching reptiles.
• Never eat or put anything in your mouth during or after touching your animals.
• Never clean cages in the kitchen or anywhere you make food for people.
• Always wash your hands with soap after touching reptiles. Washing with water alone is not enough to kill Salmonella.
• If you have open cuts or sores, cover them with bandages or put on rubber gloves before touching reptiles.

Information for Parents About Pet Turtles