Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Health authorities report a Salmonella outbreak affecting only children aged 2 years or younger. Veiled chameleons and other reptiles are not recommended as pets for children under 5, as they are more susceptible to severe illness from germs these animals can carry.
Veiled chameleons can harbor Salmonella bacteria in their droppings without appearing ill. These germs can spread to the chameleon's body and its surroundings, increasing the risk of transmission to people who touch the reptile or its environment and then inadvertently ingest the bacteria.
To reduce the risk of infection, people are advised to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching or feeding a chameleon, or cleaning its habitat. Special care should be taken before handling young children. Children under 5 should avoid contact with chameleons, and older children should wash their hands after any contact.
Additional safety measures include keeping chameleons in a dedicated enclosure away from areas where children play or crawl, and not allowing them in kitchens or food preparation areas. Chameleon supplies should be cleaned outdoors if possible, or, if done indoors, away from food handling areas, followed by thorough disinfection.
Parents and caregivers considering a chameleon as a pet should evaluate its suitability, especially for households with young children, seniors, or immunocompromised individuals. Veterinary consultation is recommended before acquiring a chameleon. For those who decide a chameleon is not appropriate, local resources for safe rehoming are available. Releasing these pets into the wild is strongly discouraged, as it may disrupt local ecosystems.