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Whitby Free Prou, Wednesday, May 18, 1994, Page 15 à J&II Pet reptilIes found to have salmonella bacteria A survey of 12 pet shops in January and February by the Durham Region Health Department shows that more than just pet turties are contaxninated with salmonella bacteria. Based on research, the health department has created a public education campaign to promote better handling of these pets by people, especially children. Salmonella bacteria causes a common disease, saîrnonellosis, which causes àtomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and usually fever. 'Usually, people recover fully after a few days, but the disease can be very serious in the elderly or very young, and even cause death. The health department decided to survey local pet shops after investigating six cases of salmonellosis that were traced to pet turtles. Jacques Perreault, a public health inspector, collected water s=mpes from aquariums and dry saples from terrariums to test a range of reptiles and amphibians. Included in the testing were, srnall, mediumn and large turties, newts, iguanas, water dogs and many different lizards. Twenty-one of the 48 samples (44 per cent) sent to the Peterborough Public Health laboratory tested positive for salmonella bacteria. To prot.ect the public, health departmnents have traditionally att.empted to ban the sale of pet turties with linited success, and the research undertaken by the department shows that such a ban would not solve the problem. Warning labels made of dling vinyl were produced by the health department for pet store owners to, post on the outside of aquariums and terrariums where these animals are displayed for sale. The department also designed pamphlt or pet store operators to give te custoniers when they purchase one of these animaIs. ips on protecting individuals from salmonella bacteria carried by these animais include: eAlways wash hands with Grand OpDa'inglve@Thru Grand Open in&usCfSausages hot, soapy water after handling pets or anythingt in their ' home.' e Watch children closely to prevent them from touchiàng their mouths with.dirty hands or pets. riu Keep aquariums, terra- ri9 and cages cean. Change tank water often. eWhen pets are sick with vomnifing or diarrhea, be extra careflil. The health deamient has sent copies of its public education materials to al other health departments in encouragethemn sinflar campaign. Ontario to adopt For more information, contact Perreault at 723-8521 or 686-2740, ext. 2106. Ma & Pas Counity Store SY Country Decor Y Sante Fe SScented Candies Y Potoourri and electrie pots Y Featuring 16 craftspeople fom Durham Region This week'sfeatured local crafisperson REAL ANDREWS 10%cl OFF WOOD PRODUCTS 374 WILSON RD. S. OSHAWA e 434-7560 North of Bloor, South of Olive w y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y F $1750-3