The CDC and multiple states investigated an outbreak of Salmonella Agbeni linked to contact with pet turtles. Thirty-seven people infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Agbeni were reported from 13 states. Illness onset dates ranged from March 1, 2017 to August 3, 2017. Of 33 people with available information, 16 were hospitalized. There were no deaths. Twelve ill people were children 5 years of age or younger.

Epidemiologic and laboratory findings linked the outbreak to contact with turtles or their environments such as water from a turtle habitat. Six ill people reported purchasing the turtles from a flea market, street vendor or receiving the turtle as a gift.