Doctors fro the first time in the United States have related an outbreak of salmonella to African dwarf frogs. This breed of frog is mostly kept in aquariums at home.

After five Utahns were sickened by the Typhimurium strain of salmonella a national investigation was started by the U. S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta. This was done to ascertain the source of the outbreak this summer.

CDC reported that about 85 people in several states fell ill. Out of 85 about two-thirds had some contact with frogs.

The report also clarified that frogs do not spread the bacteria but it was the tanks’ water that was responsible.

The bacteria were spread following people washing frog’s aquarium in bathroom wash basins and kitchen sinks.

After testing frogs from 16 retailers about 21 per cent of frogs tested positive for salmonella.

The CDC informed that, “Public education efforts should be expanded to include the risk for salmonellosis from aquatic pet frogs and other amphibians. Preventive measures include washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching animals or cleaning aquariums."

Most people infected with Salmonella develop diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps within 12 to 72 hours after contact with the germ. Infections typically clear up in five to seven days.