In a concerning public health crisis, Canada is grappling with a salmonella outbreak tied to geckos that has resulted in one fatality and left three individuals hospitalized. The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has reported that at least 25 people across seven provinces have been infected, marking this as the second salmonella outbreak associated with geckos within the year.

Infected individuals have emerged from British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland and Labrador. Investigations reveal that many victims had either direct or indirect contact with geckos, or the environments where these reptiles are housed. Alarmingly, some who fell ill never handled the geckos but were living in the same home as the pets.

The reported illnesses span from August 2020 to September 2024, with a striking 64% of cases occurring in females. Victims’ ages ranged dramatically from just 1 year old to seniors aged 103. As the investigation unfolds, PHAC alerts that the actual case count may be higher than the number currently known.

Salmonella, a bacterial infection typically spread through contaminated food and water, poses significant health risks, particularly for children and older adults. Symptoms may include severe gastrointestinal discomfort, dehydration, and, in extreme situations, can lead to death. The transmission of salmonella can occur through direct interaction with reptiles, their habitats, or even contaminated surfaces in animal environments.

Reports suggest that exposure can happen in various public and private settings like birthday parties, schools, zoos, and even at reptile exhibitions. To mitigate the risk of infection, PHAC emphasizes practicing strict hygiene. Recommendations include:

Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water after touching reptiles or their food or enclosures.

Clean hands whenever leaving areas where reptiles are present, regardless of direct contact.

Disinfect surfaces or items that might have come into contact with reptiles.

Never kiss pet reptiles.

Closely supervise children during interactions with reptiles.

Store reptiles and their supplies away from food preparation areas.

Use a dedicated plastic bin for cleaning reptiles rather than kitchen or bathroom sinks.

Symptoms of the infection manifest between six and 72 hours post-exposure and may last from four to seven days. Common symptoms include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and abdominal cramps. PHAC advises anyone suspecting a salmonella infection to seek medical attention, though many recover without treatment.

In a concerning pattern, another outbreak linked to geckos resulted in 36 infections between March 2020 and March 2024, emphasizing the need for ongoing vigilance regarding these reptiles as pets. As Canadian health officials continue their investigation, the community is urged to remain aware and adhere to health guidelines to safeguard against this dangerous infection.