Salmonella Testing Services

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced an investigation into a multistate outbreak of Salmonella infections connected to pet bearded dragons. Reptiles, including bearded dragons, can naturally carry Salmonella germs that spread easily to surfaces and humans, and may cause severe illness. 

As of November 2025, a total of seventeen people across eleven states had been infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella. Reported illnesses began between May 26 and October 4, 2025. Of those affected, at least six individuals were hospitalized, and one death has been reported.

The CDC cautions that the actual number of cases is likely higher than reported, as many people recover without seeking medical attention or testing for Salmonella. Additionally, the outbreak may extend beyond the currently identified states.

“While many people associate Salmonella with contaminated food, this outbreak underscores that animals can also be a significant source,” said Jason Dobranic, Ph.D., Vice President of Microbiology and Life Sciences at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “More than half of those infected in this outbreak were young children, likely due to their frequent hand-to-mouth behaviors and developing immune systems.”

To help prevent and control outbreaks, EMSL Analytical offers comprehensive environmental and infection control testing services. These tests can identify Salmonella and other pathogens in various environments, aiding in both prevention and post-cleaning verification to ensure contamination has been effectively eliminated.

For more information about microbial pathogen testing or other health and safety testing services, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675, or email info@EMSL.com.

 

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP <797>, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOCs, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products, and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.