Which statement about Salmonella and turtles is true?

Which statement about Salmonella and turtles is true?

• A. Salmonella cannot be present in turtles
• B. Salmonella can be present in turtles and can be shed to humans
• C. Salmonella is beneficial to turtles
• D. Salmonella only affects fish

Answer: (B)

Salmonella can be present in turtles and can be shed to humans. Reptiles, including turtles, can carry Salmonella in their intestines and on their bodies without appearing sick. They shed the bacteria into their environment—water, bedding, surfaces—so people can pick it up by touching the turtle or items the turtle has contaminated. Transmission to humans happens mainly through the fecal-oral route, especially if hands aren’t washed well after handling the animal or its habitat. This is why public health guidance emphasizes thorough handwashing after handling turtles, cleaning cages carefully, and avoiding reptile contact in settings with young children or people at higher risk for severe illness. Historically, concerns about turtle-associated Salmonella led to restrictions on selling certain small turtles to reduce transmission risk. The other statements aren’t accurate: Salmonella can be present in turtles, it is not beneficial to turtles, and it does not only affect fish.

Salmonella can be present in turtles and can be shed to humans. Reptiles, including turtles, can carry Salmonella in their intestines and on their bodies without appearing sick. They shed the bacteria into their environment—water, bedding, surfaces—so people can pick it up by touching the turtle or items the turtle has contaminated. Transmission to humans happens mainly through the fecal-oral route, especially if hands aren’t washed well after handling the animal or its habitat. This is why public health guidance emphasizes thorough handwashing after handling turtles, cleaning cages carefully, and avoiding reptile contact in settings with young children or people at higher risk for severe illness. Historically, concerns about turtle-associated Salmonella led to restrictions on selling certain small turtles to reduce transmission risk. The other statements aren’t accurate: Salmonella can be present in turtles, it is not beneficial to turtles, and it does not only affect fish.