Geckos as cause of salmonella infection in Canada: Public Health Agency

 

Canada's Public Health Agency blames geckos for salmonella outbreak spreading across seven provinces Geckos are a type of lizard. Carnivorous lizards found on every continent except Antarctica. The agency confirmed in a statement that based on investigation findings so far, geckos have been identified as the source of the outbreak. Many infected individuals have reported direct or indirect contact with geckos or their enclosures prior to becoming ill.

According to the PHAC, people who came into contact with the geckos became ill in BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick. As of March 22, 35 cases of the disease have been confirmed through contact with geckos. Five of them were admitted to the hospital. Seven cases were reported in children aged five and under. Ontario has reported the most cases, with 18.

The agency's statement suggests that reptile owners and business operators play a key role in preventing such pet-related illnesses.