All reptiles carry various strains of salmonella as part of their natural gut flora. This usually does not pose a threat to human health so long as proper precautions are taken, such as always washing your hands after handling any reptile. Salmonella is usually not serious in adults. However, young adults and babies pose a greater risk of acquiring problems that could be threatening to their health. It is therefore advisable to supervise activities around reptiles with young adults to assure that they clean their hand properly after handling etc.
Young children are especially fond of playing with small turtles.
With the proper precautions, salmonella should not much of a factor at all.