Pet Bearded Dragons Are Giving Owners Salmonella

A CDC report says that a total of 132 people in 31 states have been infected with Salmonella Cotham from their bearded dragons since late February 2012.

No one has died from the outbreak, but 42% of the people infected have been hospitalized, and 58% of those infected are kids ages five and under.

Bearded dragons are desert animals that can grow to about 20 inches long, the Associated Press reports. The can sell from $70 to $100 at pet stores.

Even though the pets can look healthy, they may be spreading bacteria. CDC officials say owners should make sure their hands are well washed after handling their pets, and they should be kept away from small kids.

[AP]