Kids and Pets: CDC Advice for Staying Healthy and Happy

PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- CDC experts caution parents, pediatricians, and veterinarians to be aware of the risks that exotic animals and pets can pose to children. A study released in Pediatrics' October issue outlined the diseases that can be transmitted to children when they come in contact with reptiles, rodents, mammals, birds, amphibians, non-human primates and fish. Many families own non-traditional pets, and children may encounter animals at petting zoos, farms and pet stores. Parents are urged to talk to the family veterinarian or pediatrician to learn how to ensure that their child's experience with animals is both safe and enjoyable.

Diseases and injuries associated with non-traditional pets and wildlife:


Reptiles (e.g., turtles, lizards,
snakes, etc.) Salmonella infection

Rodents (e.g., hamsters, rates,
mice, gerbils, guinea pigs,
squirrels, etc.) Salmonella infection, plague,
rabies

Fish Mycobacterium, Aeromonas, Vibrio,
Salmonella, and Streptococcus
infections

Cattle E. coli infection

Goats Cryptosporidium and E. coli
infections, rabies

Baby poultry (e.g., chicks,
ducklings, etc.) Salmonella infection

Ferrets Bite injuries


Pediatricians, veterinarians and parents play an important role in preventing animal-related illness.

-- Children should wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after
touching animals.
-- Parents should supervise handwashing for children younger than five
years of age.
-- Never touch wild animals or bring them home as pets.
-- Always supervise children, especially those younger than five, during
interaction with animals.
-- Children should not be allowed to kiss animals or put their hands or
other objects in their mouth after handling animals.
-- Pediatricians and veterinarians should advise parents about
appropriate pet selection and how to avoid animal-transmitted
illnesses.
-- Family pets should be kept in good health and vaccinated
appropriately.


To read the full text of the article, including expanded lists of animals, diseases, and prevention advice, click here: (http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/content/full/122/4/876). More information on this subject can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/.

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