These are the same type of bacteria that can be found in uncooked foods like eggs or raw chicken. The salmonella bacteria are passed through the feces of reptiles, and the bacteria get spread inside cages or tanks. The bacteria also get on the skin of the reptiles. When you or other people touch the reptile or the area where it has been, the bacteria get on your hands. When you touch your hands to your mouth or prepare food, the bacteria are swallowed and can cause disease.
People can spread the bacteria in their feces, too.
Always wash your hands with soap and water after touching a reptile or cleaning its cage. The salmonella bacteria are usually normal for reptiles, so your pet may not seem sick from this bacteria. Even if the reptile does not have diarrhea or any other problems, it can still spread the germs through its feces. Salmonella in humans can cause an upset stomach, cramps, diarrhea, fever, nausea, and vomiting. Most people get sick 12 to 36 hours after the bacteria are swallowed.