In August 2026, public health officials in several states investigated an outbreak of Salmonella Paratyphi B Variant L (+) Tartrate + infections associated with contact with pet turtles.

As of July 27, 2026, a total of 8 cases had been reported from 6 states. Three people were hospitalized. No one died. Illnesses started on dates ranging from June 6, 2026 to July 4, 2026. All of the sick people were children younger than 10 years old.

State and local public health officials interviewed parents about the animals the children came into contact with the week before they got sick. Parents of 6 children reported that 5 (83%) had contact with pet turtles before getting sick. Of the 4 people who reported the size of the pet turtle, 3 (75%) reported contact with pet turtles with shells less than 4 inches long.