Frogs linked to a recent salmonella outbreak affecting 240 people are being sold once again, according to the Associated Press.
Blue Lobster Farms, a breeding facility in Madera County, California, resumed selling African dwarf frogs to pet stores after voluntarily halting sales in April. A Centers for Disease Control investigation had found that the nearly two year salmonella outbreak was linked to the frogs sold at Blue Lobster Farms. The CDC announced this week that the facility resumed frog sales back in June, despite the risks of salmonella infections.
Most of the affected people were children under five years old. The Associated Press says no one died from the recent salmonella outbreak.
Salmonella is a type of bacteria infection that is usually treated with antibiotics. The illness can last up to one week and may include symptoms such as headache, fever, abdominal pain, nausea and diarrhea. Complications include infection, typhoid fever and even death.
Reptiles and amphibians are common carriers of salmonella. Lizards, turtles and snakes can all potentially carry the bacteria. Kids are the most vulnerable to infections, and these types of pets are not recommended for children under five years old.
Salmonella is also prevalent in undercooked meats as well as unwashed produce.
