Safety Report: Outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to pet geckos, Canada

Canada

A Salmonella Muenchen outbreak linked to geckos has been reported across seven Canadian provinces, with 25 confirmed cases of infection. The provinces affected include British Columbia (1), Alberta (2), Manitoba (1), Ontario (13), Quebec (2), Nova Scotia (3), Newfoundland and Labrador (3). The outbreak has resulted in three hospitalizations and one death.

People became sick between August 2020 and September 2024. People who became sick are between 1 and 103 years of age and most of them are female (64%).

Reptiles like geckos can carry Salmonella. You can get sick with Salmonella by touching reptiles or their environments and then touching your face, eyes or mouth before washing your hands. You can also get sick by touching contaminated surfaces or objects in a home or within the exhibit where geckos are kept.

This is the second outbreak linked to geckos reported in 2024. On March 22, 2024, a different outbreak of Salmonella Lome was linked to geckos. This investigation was closed on May 14.

To prevent the direct or indirect spread of Salmonella, follow the advice outlined in this section to help reduce your risk of becoming ill from contact with reptiles (including geckos) and their environments. Contact your health care provider if you think you're experiencing symptoms of a Salmonella infection.

In case you are experiencing Salmonella symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever, it is important to report it. It can help to detect & resolve outbreaks early and prevent others from being harmed, and it enables better surveillance. If symptoms persist, seek medical care.

Source: www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/public-health-notices/2024/outbreak-salmonella-muenchen-infections-geckos.html