H174

  Reptile Handling Guidelines

Always wash your hands with soap after you pick up a lizard. Children should always be supervised, and children under 5 should not handle reptiles. 

Handling Guideline for the prevention of Salmonella Infections
Salmonella Infections in Humans: There have been a few cases where salmonella infections have been transmitted from reptiles to humans. In humans salmonella can cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, diarrhea, and severe abdominal pain within 12 to 24 hours after ingesting a Salmonella tainted food substance. Since Salmonella is usually transmitted orally the best prevention is to wash your hands after touching any reptile.

Handling Guidelines:
1. Always wash your hands with soap after handling a lizard.
2. Children under 5 should avoid handling lizards
3. Reptiles should not be kept in food preparation areas.
4. Reptiles may not be appropriate pets for day care centers.