Cluster of human Salmonella Guinea infections: Reported reptile exposures and associated opportunities for infection prevention - Ohio, 2019-2020.

ABSTRACT

A cluster of five human Salmonella Guinea cases was identified among Ohio residents through core genome multilocus sequence typing of clinical isolates. An investigation was conducted to characterize illnesses and identify common exposures. Four patients were aged ≤5 years and three of four patients with information available regarding exposure to animals reported prior exposure to bearded dragons. Practices that potentially increased the risk for Salmonella transmission from reptiles to humans included allowing pet reptiles to roam freely in the home, cleaning reptile habitats indoors, and kissing reptiles. These findings prompted a multistate investigation that resulted in the identification of additional closely related Salmonella Guinea isolates from patients across multiple states. The investigation of cases in Ohio and information shared by other states indicated the potential association between human Salmonella Guinea infections and reptiles, particularly bearded dragons. To prevent Salmonella transmission from reptiles, continued educational efforts should address pet owners and focus on specific reptile ownership practices.