Reoccurring Salmonella Cotham Outbreak Linked to Pet Bearded Dragons - United States, 2024.

Abstract

In April 2024, CDC's PulseNet identified a cluster of seven Salmonella Cotham cases from five states. Isolates were highly related by whole genome sequencing (WGS), and one patient reported contact with a pet bearded dragon. CDC initiated a multistate investigation and as of December 10, 2024, an additional 19 cases had been identified, for a total of 26 confirmed cases from 13 states; state public health partners identified one probable case in an additional state for a total of 27 cases. Eighteen of 25 cases (72%) were among persons who reported contact with a bearded dragon or lizard. Children aged <5 years, especially infants, were disproportionately affected, accounting for 17 (65%) of the 26 confirmed cases; most had bearded dragons in the home without direct animal contact. WGS of two bearded dragon specimens collected in 2024 and three bearded dragon specimens collected during 2012-2014 confirmed genetic relatedness of this rare Salmonella strain and continued circulation among commercially sold bearded dragons. CDC implemented a One Health approach in response, working with pet industry representatives to disseminate information about biosecurity best practices to bearded dragon suppliers and retailers. Investigators contacted a common bearded dragon supplier identified in the traceback investigation to share biosecurity and prevention recommendations. CDC used social media and a website investigation notice to inform the public, recommending that caregivers prevent young children from indirect reptile contact by restricting reptiles from roaming freely, separating reptiles and supplies from food preparation areas, and washing hands and changing clothes after handling reptiles and before holding infants.