Multistate outbreak of human Salmonella Cotham

What

CDC will host a media briefing to discuss 20 years of immunization with the VFC program and current measles cases and outbreaks.

Background

• As of April 21, 2014, a total of 132 persons infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Cotham have been reported from 31 states since Feb. 21, 2012.
  • 58 percent of ill persons are children 5 years of age or younger.
  • 42 percent of ill persons have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported.
• Epidemiologic, laboratory, and trace-back findings have linked this outbreak of Salmonella infections to contact with pet bearded dragons purchased from multiple stores in different states.
  • Bearded dragons are popular pet lizards that come in a variety of colors.
• CDC’S NARMS laboratory conducted antibiotic resistance testing on Salmonella Cotham isolates collected from three ill persons infected with the outbreak strain.
  • Of the three isolates collected from ill persons, one was resistant to ceftriaxone, an antibiotic used to treat serious Salmonella infections.
• It is very important to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water right after touching reptiles or anything in the area where they live and roam.
  • Simple tips on how to enjoy your pet reptile and protect yourself and your family from illness is available in English and en Español.

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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES