Subject: Multi-state Salmonella typhimurium Outbreak Linked to Pet Frogs
Date: 12/16/2009; 13:09:04
Message#: 101465-12-16-2009-PHAD
Attachments: None
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a report on December 7, 2009 summarizing 48 cases of Salmonella typhimurium in 25 states linked to contact with pet amphibians, specifically, water frogs. The majority of cases were less than 10 years old. There are two New Jersey cases, both four years of age. A joint press release issued by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians warn parents to take precautions to reduce the risk of Salmonella transmission from pet reptiles and amphibians to family members. The AVMA has also developed a fact sheet listing tips on how amphibian and reptile owners can protect themselves and their families, which stresses handwashing and minimizing contact with high risk individuals such as children less that 5 years of age.
The joint press release is posted on the AVMA website at: http://www.avma.org/press/releases/091211_amphibian_reptile_salmonella.asp
The fact sheet titled "Amphibians, Reptiles and Salmonella" is posted on the AVMA website at: http://www.avma.org/public_health/salmonella/amphibians.asp
For more information on reptile and amphibian associated salmonellosis, please contact either Drs. Faye E. Sorhage or Colin T. Campbell of the Departments' Infectious and Zoonotic Disease Program at 609-588-3121.
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