The small turtle Salmonella outbreak has sickened at least 59 people in 18 states, and has hospitalized 23 of those patients, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). That is an increase of 33 more illnesses, 14 new hospitalizations, and seven more states since the last update was issued on August 25, 2023. In addition, another serotype, Salmonella Poona, has been added.   It is illegal to sell or buy turtles with shells less than four inches long in the United States. A federal law was passed because these animals have caused many illnesses, particularly in young children. Yet these turtles are found for sale in pet stores, and are for sale on line, at flea markets, or at roadside stands. These turtles excrete Salmonella in their feces even if … [Read more...]