2015 Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Contact with Pet Crested Geckos – Signs & Symptoms
Multistate Outbreak of Human Salmonella Muenchen Infections Linked to Contact with Pet Crested Geckos (Final Update)
This investigation is over. However, reptiles continue to be a cause of human Salmonella infections in the United States. More information about Salmonella from reptiles and how you can reduce your risk of infection is available in English and en Español.
What are the signs and symptoms?
Most persons infected with Salmonella develop the following signs and symptoms 12-72 hours after being exposed to the bacteria:
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Abdominal cramps
How long does the illness last?
- The illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days, and most persons recover without treatment.
- In some persons, the diarrhea may be so severe that the patient needs to be hospitalized. Salmonella infection may spread from the intestines to the bloodstream and then to other places in the body.
- In rare cases, Salmonella infection can cause death unless the person is treated promptly with antibiotics.
Who is more likely to have a severe illness?
- Children younger than 5 years
- Adults older than 65 years
- People with weakened immune systems
More information about Salmonella and steps people can take to reduce their risk of infection with Salmonella in general can be found on the CDC Salmonella Web Page.
