The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Virginia Department of Health (VDH), and other public health officials have been investigating a multi-state outbreak of Salmonella serotype Typhimurium. As of December 30, 2009, 85 individuals infected with the outbreak strain have been reported from 31 states; three ill individuals live in Virginia.
The most likely source of the infections is contact with water frogs including African Dwarf frogs. Water frogs commonly live in aquariums or fish tanks. Amphibians such as frogs and reptiles such as turtles are recognized as a source of human Salmonella infections.
Children less than 5 years old, elderly persons, and persons with weakened immune systems are more likely than others to develop severe disease. These persons should avoid contact with amphibians and reptiles and their habitats (e.g., aquarium, fish tank, or terrarium).