I would have thought this would fall under the realm of common sense, but as the saying goes: Common sense is like deodorant, the people that need it the most don’t use it.
A recent report out of Scotland is warning people not to kiss their pet reptiles, in response to four people who were hospitalized with salmonellosis after kissing bearded dragons, and other reptiles.
Reptile-associated salmonellosis is a major concern, and while there are ways to make reptile ownership very safe for most people, some risk will always remain. Certain behaviours will increase that risk. A large percentage of healthy reptiles have Salmonella in their intestinal tracts, and anything that’s in the intestinal tract ends up in the animal’s habitat and on its skin. Kissing reptiles is an obvious way to be exposed to this bacterium, which can cause serious disease in some situations.
Among the report’s recommendations are:
- Families that own a bearded dragon or similar reptiles are advised to consult their doctor if they become ill with symptoms of fever, vomiting, abdominal pain and/or diarrhoea.
- They should also inform their GP that they keep a reptile. Children are particularly at risk because they like to stroke and handle pets.
- NHS Forth Valley have also issued a guide for pet owners to reduce the risk of catching Salmonella from lizards, which includes supervising children to make sure they do not put the animal, or objects it has been in contact with, near their mouths.
- It also recommended washing hands with soap and water immediately after handling a reptile, its cage or any other equipment, keeping a reptile out of rooms where food it prepared or eaten, and disposing of droppings and waste water down a toilet, rather than in a sink or bath.
Just common sense.
More information about reptiles and Salmonella can be found on the Worms & Germs Resources – Pets page.
As someone deeply immersed in the realm of zoonotic diseases and pet-related health concerns, I find it crucial to underscore the recent warning emanating from Scotland regarding the peril of kissing pet reptiles. My extensive expertise in veterinary medicine and zoonotic diseases allows me to affirm the validity and seriousness of the issue at hand.
The report discusses the incidence of salmonellosis in individuals who were hospitalized after kissing bearded dragons and other reptiles. Reptile-associated salmonellosis is a substantial concern, and my in-depth knowledge supports the claim that healthy reptiles, including bearded dragons, often carry Salmonella in their intestinal tracts. This bacterium, prevalent in their habitat and on their skin, poses a risk to human health, particularly through behaviors such as kissing reptiles.
The recommendations provided in the report align with established best practices in reptile ownership. Families with bearded dragons or similar reptiles are wisely advised to consult a doctor if they exhibit symptoms like fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea – all indicative of salmonellosis. The emphasis on children as a high-risk group resonates with my understanding of their inclination to interact closely with pets.
NHS Forth Valley's guidelines further reflect a comprehensive approach to mitigate the risk of Salmonella transmission. These include supervising children to prevent contact between reptiles and their mouths, immediate handwashing with soap and water after handling reptiles or their habitats, and prudent disposal of droppings and waste water.
The mention of the Worms & Germs Resources – Pets page adds credibility to the recommendations, as this source is well-regarded in the veterinary community for its accurate and practical information on zoonotic diseases. In essence, the advice given in the report aligns seamlessly with established best practices and my extensive knowledge in the field.
To encapsulate, the imperative to avoid kissing pet reptiles, especially bearded dragons, stems not just from common sense but from a scientifically grounded understanding of the risks associated with reptile-associated salmonellosis. The provided recommendations, ranging from medical consultation to vigilant hygiene practices, are not only intuitive but supported by a wealth of expertise in the field of zoonotic diseases and responsible pet ownership.
