CDC and public health officials in several states investigated an outbreak of salmonellosis linked to contact with small turtles. As of September 29, 2023, there were 59 people associated with the outbreak strains of Salmonella Stanley (30 people), Salmonella Pomona (3 people) or Salmonella Poona (26 people) reported from 18 states. Illnesses started on dates ranging from October 27, 2022 to August 26, 2023. Twenty three people were hospitalized. There were no deaths.

In July 2023, the Tennessee Department of Health collected samples from two turtles and their tank in a sick person's home for testing. These turtles were purchased at a pet store. Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) showed that the Salmonella on the turtles and their environment were closely related to bacteria from sick people.

Thirteen people were interviewed about where they purchased their pet turtle. Six people (46%) reported purchasing their pet turtles from online retailers. Five people (38%) reported buying their turtle from stores, and 1 person reported buying their turtle from a reptile show.