CDC investigating multi-state salmonella outbreak linked to turtles with 2 Georgia cases

ATLANTA — The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is investigating a multi-state Salmonella outbreak.

So far, 26 cases have been confirmed, and from what the agency knows so far, they’re linked to small turtles, mostly pets.

Of the cases across the country, two have been reported in Georgia, according to the CDC.

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The public health agency issued a warning about the outbreak, saying it may not be limited to just states where reported cases have been found.

“The true number of sick people is likely higher than the number reported. This is because many people recover without medical care and are not tested for Salmonella,” the CDC reported.

As of the latest update, cases have been reported in California, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, North Carolina, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Virginia.

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The turtles linked to the Salmonella outbreak are described by the CDC as turtles with shells less than four inches long.

Nine people have been hospitalized from Salmonella cases related to this outbreak, and no deaths have been reported since the investigation opened.

“A federal law bans the sale and distribution of turtles with shells less than 4 inches long as pets because they have caused many illnesses, especially in young children,” the CDC said. “Despite the ban, these turtles can sometimes be found illegally online and at stores, flea markets, and roadside stands.”

The agency warned that pet turtles of any size can carry Salmonella, even if they look healthy and clean. The germs are typically in their droppings, and can spread easily to the turtles’ bodies, tank water, and anything in the area where they live or roam.

The CDC said severe symptoms of Salmonella include: