"Health Alert: Avoid Turtle Kisses to Prevent Hospitalizations"

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning against kissing turtles after a multi-state salmonella outbreak linked to small turtles. At least 26 people have fallen ill, with nine hospitalized. Turtles are known carriers of salmonella, which can be spread through their feces. Symptoms include abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea, and in rare cases, it can be life-threatening. The CDC advises against kissing or hugging turtles, keeping them away from food preparation areas, and recommends against owning pet turtles for children under 5, adults over 65, and those with compromised immune systems. The CDC also advises against kissing cats, dogs, lizards, chickens, ducks, frogs, and hedgehogs.