The CDC has issued a warning about a Salmonella outbreak linked to pet bearded dragons.

The outbreak has affected 15 patients across nine states, with four individuals hospitalized.

Children under 5 are most at risk, prompting the CDC to advise against young children having contact with bearded dragons.

The outbreak strain is identified as Salmonella Cotham.

Precautions to prevent exposure include washing hands regularly, keeping young children away, and using a dedicated enclosure for the reptiles.

The CDC strongly advises against purchasing bearded dragons as pets for young children.

This outbreak underscores the ongoing issue of reptile-associated infections, with one case reported in Oklahoma.