In August 2024, CDC and public health officials in several states investigated an outbreak of Salmonella Stanley (48 cases) and Salmonella Poona (15 cases) associated with contact with small turtles. Illnesses started on dates ranging from August 20, 2023 to August 12, 2024. Of 62 people with information available, 28 (45%) were hospitalized. No deaths were reported.

Of the 53 people interviewed, 34 (64%) reported contact with pet turtles. Of the 29 people who reported the size of the pet turtle, 27 (93%) reported contact with pet turtles with shells less than 4 inches long.

In June 2024, samples were collected from a sick person’s turtle in California for testing. This turtle was purchased from a street vendor. WGS performed by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Laboratory showed that Salmonella serotype Poona from the turtle was closely related to the bacteria from sick people.

In July 2024, samples were collected from one turtle and its environment in a sick person’s home in Illinois for testing. The turtle was purchased from a souvenir shop. WGS performed by the Illinois Department of Public Health Laboratory showed the Salmonella Poona on the turtle and its environment were the same as the bacteria from the sick individual.

The outbreak was declared over on October 3, 2024.