Pet turtle warning

(WILX)
Published: Oct. 10, 2019 at 2:29 PM EDT
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Federal health officials are warning about a salmonella outbreak linked to pet turtles.

According to the CDC 21 people in 13 states have fallen ill, and the majority reported being in contact with pet turtles.

No deaths have been reported, but seven people have been hospitalized.

The agency recommends that turtles should not be kept in households with children younger than 5, older adults, or those with a weakened immune system.

Experts say that any turtle can carry the disease, and you should always wash your hands following any contact with the reptile, or its habitat.

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