salmonella

[drache]

I found out that there are over 1400 species of salmonella
we're bound to carry a few
just maybe not the ones causing pathology

[Loren]

I say put reptile cages up on stands out of the reach of children while they are really young, then as they grow, let them handle them, but only with direct supervision. I dont think illness is a big risk, but kids still shouldnt be able to handle reptiles till they are old enough and responsible enough to keep their fingers out of their mouths untill they have washed up.
As far as keeping them in the house in general, I dont think you can get sick without actually touching them or something that they have touched. I wouldnt let reptiles free roam the house if I had an infant.
And yes, the threat is blown out of proportion.

[Stefan-A]

2 species of Salmonella, or 6 subspecies and something like 4000 serovars.

[drache]

serovars are just variants within a species distinguished by different serological reactions
according to Taber's Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary there are over 1400 distinct species that have been classified, many of which are not pathogenic and so don't really count in a discussion of this sort
I do realize that the 19th edition has some flaws, but for the most part I do trust them

[Loren]

serovars are just variants within a species distinguished by different serological reactions
according to Taber's Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary there are over 1400 distinct species that have been classified, many of which are not pathogenic and so don't really count in a discussion of this sort
I do realize that the 19th edition has some flaws, but for the most part I do trust them

My cats breath smells like catfood.

[drache]

My cats breath smells like catfood.

so does my cats'
kitty halitosis (I love big words from Taber's)
but I think it's probably unrelated to salmonella, or I might have mentioned it sooner
and I think your cat will be fine as long as she doesn't develop trichoglossia

[tikichick]

I agree with Don on this. Reptiles can carry salmonella, especially turtles, but normal hygiene practice is fine where snakes are concerned. I think it can often be blown out of proportion.

I agree and I just read about it in turtles last night:

"Avoiding Salmonella
Salmonella poisoning is something all reptile owners should be aware of since it is a disease that can cause severe diarrhea and even death to children and people with weaken immune systems. Some box turtles (as well as raw eggs, chicken, beef, flies) are carriers of the germ and can spread it to humans. Always wash your hands with an antibacterial soap after handling box turtles or any reptiles. Never feed raw chicken or beef to turtles. Never let small children play with your turtles. They may try to kiss the turtle or stick fingers in their mouths before you have a chance to tell them to wash their hands. Never clean turtle items near food preparation areas, like the kitchen sink. Use an outdoor faucet and washpan. If you keep in mind the need for cleanliness and hand washing, you will lessen the chances of Salmonella poisoning."


from Health Care for Box Turtles