Update: Reptiles and Salmonella

Salmonellosis continues to be an important disease in both humans and animals. Although there are many sources of Salmonella spp. exposure to humans, reptiles and amphibians are still considered a primary source of these bacteria. Despite the 1975 US Food and Drug Administration regulations restricting the sale and movement of turtles less than 4 inches in length, reptile-associated salmonellosis in humans continues to be reported. This article will review current research on the prevalence, detection, elimination, and prevention of Salmonella spp. infections associated with reptile species and methods for preventing human illness.