Reptile-associated salmonellosis in Minnesota, 1996-2011

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Zoonotic Diseases
• Microbiology

Background:

• Reptile-associated salmonellosis (RAS) is a public health concern.
• Salmonella transmission from reptiles to humans poses a risk.
• Understanding the epidemiology of RAS is crucial for prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the epidemiology of RAS in Minnesota from 1996 to 2011.
• To identify common reptile sources and Salmonella serotypes involved in human infections.
• To compare Salmonella isolates from human cases and reptiles.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of confirmed Salmonella cases in Minnesota.
• Interviews with case patients regarding risk factors, including animal contact.
• Culture and molecular subtyping (PFGE) of Salmonella isolates from human and reptile samples.

Main Results:

• Approximately 3.5% of sporadic non-typhoidal salmonellosis cases were linked to reptile exposure.
• Children under 20 years old represented the majority of RAS cases.
• Lizards, snakes, and turtles were the most frequently reported reptile exposures.
• Salmonella isolates from humans and reptiles frequently matched in serotype and PFGE subtype, with Salmonella enterica subspecies I being predominant.

Conclusions:

• Reptiles are a significant source of Salmonella infections in Minnesota, particularly among children.
• The study identified specific reptile types and Salmonella serotypes commonly associated with RAS.
• Genetic matching of isolates supports reptiles as a direct source of human Salmonella transmission, including serotypes not typically considered reptile-associated.