Is salmonella seriously a risk to reptile keepers? - YES!

Did you know that it is estimated that between 83-93% of reptiles are carriers of Salmonella.
Salmonella is a risk to any person in contact with reptiles, common symptoms are diarrhoea, vomiting and stomach cramps. The very young, the elderly or people with any type of immunodeficiency disorders are particularly susceptible, in these circumstances Salmonellosis can lead to Septicaemia and in some cases, even death.
Taking these facts into account, we need to take precautions to control Salmonella and enjoy our reptiles in a safe manner without succumbing to those nasty bugs!
* ALWAYS wash your hands (and ensure children wash their hands) after handling reptiles. An antibacterial soap is best, plain water is just not good enough.
* Try not to let children under the age of 5 handle reptiles and children under the age of 12 should be supervised.
* Do not prepare reptile food or clean reptile equipment (including water bowls) in the kitchen or around food. (If using a bathroom sink for cleaning, be sure toothbrushes or any other dental care equipment is stored clear from any potential splash of water)
* Use a QUALITY, safe, fast acting disinfectant when cleaning enclosures and equipment, such as Vetafarm Herpacare (hospital grade disinfectant).
*Be sure to contact a doctor if you or any family member develops diarrhoea that lasts for more than a day.
We love reptiles, but we all need to be aware that without the right care and hygiene, salmonella from reptiles is a very real threat to our health.