Ask A Scientist© Veterinary Topics Archive

name         Sara
status       educator
age          5

Question -   Do land turtles carry salmonella?
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Good question!  

Salmonella is very common in many cold-blooded animals, including
turtles.  This germ can be carried by both land and water turtles.  Not
all turtles have the bacteria, but they can carry Salmonella without
getting sick.  Fortunately, if you wash your hands well after handing a
turtle or handling anything in a turtle's cage, you should be able to
stay healthy.  

Handwashing is a really good idea anytime you handle an animal.  Plus
frequent handwashing, even when there are no animals around, can help
you keep from catching germs from other people.  Scientists have found
that if you wash your hands frequently when you are around other people,
you will be less likely to catch colds!!!

Keep up the good science questions!

Laura Hungerford, DVM, MPH, PhD
University of Maryland
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