Reptile-Associated Salmonellosis

Reptile-associated salmonellosis is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella bacteria that are acquired through contact with reptiles. During the 1970s, there were large numbers of cases of salmonellosis associated with small turtles, which led to a ban on their sale. This sales ban resulted in decreases in salmonellosis cases.

A recent trend toward owning imported reptiles, especially iguanas and snakes, has resulted in increasing reports of reptile-associated salmonellosis cases in the U.S.

• Reptile-associated Salmonellosis fact sheet, P-42082 (available in multiple languages)
• Handwashing fact sheet, P-42052 (available in multiple languages)
• Salmonellosis (Salmonella infection)
• CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) – Reptiles and Amphibians
• CDC
• United States Department of Agriculture

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Phone: 608-267-9003 | Fax: 608-261-4976

Wisconsin Local Health Departments - Regional offices - Tribal agencies