What is a significant zoonotic concern with imported turtles?

• A. Rabies
• B. Salmonella
• C. Mycobacterium
• D. Echinococcus granulosus

Answer: (B)

Salmonella is the main zoonotic concern with imported turtles. These reptiles can carry Salmonella in their intestines and shed the bacteria in their feces regardless of how healthy they look. People can become infected by handling the turtle or its habitat and then touching their mouth, or by contact with contaminated water, soil, or surfaces. Young children and immunocompromised individuals are especially at risk due to closer contact and hygiene challenges. Imported turtles may pose a higher risk because stress and varied health statuses can increase shedding, raising the chance of transmission. Other options don’t fit as well because rabies is primarily a concern with mammals, and the others are not classically linked to turtles in the context of zoonotic transmission.