Early this year the Centers for Disease Control reported an outbreak of salmonella poisoning stemming from contact with pet turtles. The outbreak affected over 100 people in 33 states, many of them children under the age of 10. Wildlife veterinarian Mark A. Mitchell believes the current outbreak has more to do with poor management than dirty - or dangerous - turtles. He was interviewed by News Bureau Life Sciences Editor Diana Yates.
What do you think is the cause of the current outbreak?
I believe that the current outbreak represents what happens when a regulation is in place and there is no active method to enforce it. The turtles being sold represent those animals that are not treated using the methods outlined in my research and enacted in Louisiana. There are a number of individuals selling animals from places (Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida) that do not have any state oversight. What is likely happening in these cases is that Salmonella-positive (untreated) hatchlings are being mixed with other animals and housed under inappropriate conditions, which sets up a situation where the bacteria can be rapidly disseminated between animals. Similar problems can be found with Salmonella in both the meat and produce industries, when appropriate methods to minimize contamination are not followed.
Do you support the current ban on turtles under four inches in size?
No. I believe that recent research from my laboratory shows that the prevalence of Salmonella can be consistently reduced to levels less than one percent. These are levels that are lower than those reported for some domestic pets. I believe that pet ownership is an important responsibility and that individuals should not make based on impulse. I believe that placing these animals in an appropriate environment and offering them a commercial turtle chow (Salmonella-free) will reduce the public health risk associated with these animals. Will it be perfect in all cases? No, but the same can be said for health risks associated with domestic pets or for the foods that we eat.
What would you change in the way reptiles are managed and sold as pets?
I would like to see that reptile pet ownership requires some form of registration, as we have for domestic pets. I believe that pet ownership is an important responsibility and that the purchase of a pet should not be made on impulse. Many of these animals are long-lived. In addition, I believe that the pet manufacturers need to take a long look at what they offer for sale regarding the husbandry of these animals. The old methods of holding (bowls) and feeding (freeze-dried flies) turtles should not be allowed. These animals need to be provided an appropriate vivarium.
How can the risks of Salmonella from pet turtles be minimized?
The risk associated with these animals can be reduced by starting with treated animals. The prevalence is actually quite low. The next step is to reduce the likelihood of re-exposing the animal to Salmonella by providing an appropriate environment and diet. Because reptiles are ectotherms, it is important that they are provided an appropriate environmental temperature range to maximize their metabolism and immune function. Offering a commercial diet that is Salmonella-free will also go a long way to minimizing the risk of re-exposure. All pet owners, regardless of whether we are talking about a dog or a turtle, should practice appropriate hygiene practices, such as hand washing.