New Study Says Bearded Dragons May Expose People To a Rare Form of Salmonella
Bearded dragons are beautiful, intelligent and generally known for their calm and docile nature. They not only tolerate being held but may also display signs of affection toward their owners. However, it's in this aspect of their affectionate nature where problems can come in. Especially if you let your cute lizard roam outside their tanks or enclosures.
A new study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has linked a rare salmonella strain across the USA and Canada to pet bearded dragons.
People Magazine reports, "linked the species to the Salmonella Vitkin outbreak that struck across North America in 2021 and 2022, following an investigation on the animals being potentially sold by the same breeder in southeast Asia.Per the study, two identified cases of Salmonella enterica serovar Vitkin infection were “linked by whole-genome sequencing in infants” in Ontario, Canada, in 2022 — the households of which both have bearded dragons as pets."
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The study says, in part, "In particular, potential reptile owners who have children <5 years of age should be aware that reptile ownership or contact is discouraged for this age group because, although handwashing and environmental disinfection can reduce the risk for Salmonella transmission from reptiles to humans, the increased susceptibility of children to infection and the risk for severe illness if infected make these high-risk pets."
The article also states that it is now being advised that bearded dragons being housed as pets shouldn’t roam outside of their tanks to prevent any further outbreaks.
How To Keep Yourself Safe If You Have a Bearded Dragon
The New York Times delves deeper into why these adorable dragons pose issues to their owners, "The bacteria are shed in the lizard’s feces and can end up on the animal’s skin and just about anywhere the bearded dragon rambles. Problems can occur when humans handling the creatures do not properly wash their hands and inadvertently transmit the bacteria to their mouths."
So it makes sense why the CDC is suggesting you not let your dragon free roam, because you'd basically have to follow them around, sanitizing everywhere they venture in your house continuously. You should always wash your hands thoroughly after handling your dragon or cleaning its enclosure or toys. Never let your dragon hang out on your kitchen counter, or where you eat food, like your dining room table or breakfast bar.
The CDC also recommends, "Don’t kiss or snuggle your bearded dragon, and don’t eat or drink around it. This can spread Salmonella germs to your mouth and make you sick."
They also state that bearded dragons and other reptiles are not recommended for children younger than 5, adults aged 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems.
Something to consider before you add one of these adorable pets to your home.
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