All pets, not just reptiles, can spread zoonotic diseases. These diseases can be spread by bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites ingested through the mouth. They can also be spread through the air or through breaks in the skin. Infants, young children, pregnant women, infirm and elderly people are at high risk of infection and should be especially cautious when in contact with pet reptiles and their habitats.
Here are four common zoonotic diseases found in reptiles.
Practice good hygiene
First, it’s important to remember that the most effective way to prevent the spread of disease between family pets, including dogs, cats, and reptiles, is to practice good hygiene. Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water is essential after handling pets and cleaning their habitats. Additionally, many experts recommend that reptiles not be kept as pets in homes with children under the age of five to minimize the risk of zoonotic diseases.
1. Salmonella
Salmonella is commonly found in all types of reptiles and can be transmitted from reptiles to humans if a person ingests something contaminated by reptile waste. For example, infants can become infected with Salmonella by drinking from a bottle of formula that has been contaminated through contact with a reptile/reptile waste. Salmonella infection can cause diarrhea, headache, fever, stomach cramps, and can lead to septicemia (blood poisoning).
2. Botulism
Botulism is a serious, life-threatening illness caused by toxins released by bacteria. Clostridium A bacterium that causes paralysis and death. Clostridium Clostridium is widely present as spores in environments such as soil and mud, and animals that live near the ground are often contaminated with Clostridium. Clostridium It commonly infects reptiles, especially aquatic reptiles such as turtles. Adults and older children carry a variety of bacteria that grow the spores that cause the disease, but babies under the age of one do not yet have this defense.
3. Campylobacteriosis
Campylobacteriosis is a common bacterial infection in humans. It is caused by the bacterium known as Campylobacter. Campylobacter Within 2 to 5 days after the bacteria is ingested (usually through contaminated food or water), it causes symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever.
4. Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that is common in both wild and domestic animals, such as dogs, cats, and reptiles. The infection is spread by contact with the urine of animals that carry the bacteria. This contact can occur directly through a cut or scratch on the body, or through the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, or eyes. The bacteria can also get into water or soil, where they can survive for weeks or months. Most people with leptospirosis experience flu-like symptoms and a persistent, severe headache.
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