$Unique_ID{BRK01500}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Can Stomach Aches Come From a Pet Turtle?}
$Subject{pet turtle stomach ache digestive system ill defined symptoms rare
diseases aches salmonella gastroenteritis fever upset diarrhea vomiting
salmonellosis pets turtles stomachache stomachaches fevers}
$Volume{I-23, N-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Can Stomach Aches Come From a Pet Turtle?


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QUESTION:  We have a distressing problem.  Perhaps you can provide this family
with a simple answer.  Can a recent rash of stomach aches possibly come from a
new pet turtle we recently bought?

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ANSWER:  Yes, it is possible.  Pet turtles have been known to carry the
salmonella organism which can cause human infections such as gastroenteritis.
Symptoms of the infection can include fever, upset stomach, diarrhea and
vomiting.  Though salmonella poisoning can be quite distressing, the treatment
is quite simple.  Drink plenty of fluids, which is particularly important for
small children, and eat a bland diet for a couple of days.  Antibiotics may be
used where the threat of complications is high, in the very young and very
elderly, for example.
     Because of the risk for salmonella, many states in the U.S. now require
turtles to be tested for before they are sold.  However, the incidence of
salmonellosis is still quite frequent.  Therefore, if your family does own a
pet turtle, I advise you to be sure that everyone washes their hands
thoroughly after any contact with the pet, its food, or its water.  Another,
perhaps more rational, solution is to give up the pet!

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.