About Aquarium Fish

Aquarium fish can occasionally be the source of infectious diseases. Mycobacterial infections (related to tuberculosis) can be transmitted by aquarium fish and some skin infections can be spread by contact with infected aquarium water.

What can I do to reduce my risk if I have aquarium fish?

Wear gloves when cleaning an aquarium or when handling fish. Fish suspected of having Mycobacterium or any fish showing unusual lumps should be removed from the tank, and the aquarium should be disinfected before new fish are introduced. Follow the general guidelines in this brochure.

About Reptiles

We do not recommend that people at risk keep or handle reptiles (e.g., snakes, lizards, iguanas, turtles).  Salmonella infection can be transmitted by almost any reptile. Many reptiles are carriers of Salmonella without showing any signs of illness. Because reptiles have a tendency to lie in their own feces, these bacteria can be found anywhere (and everywhere) on the animal's body.

What can I do to reduce my risk if I decide to keep a reptile in my home?

Use gloves and a face masks when handling or cleaning these animals or their habitat. Better yet, have someone not at risk do the cleaning. Thoroughly wash your hands after handling a fish or reptile. Feed a commercial reptile diet and avoid feeding raw meat and eggs to reduce your animal's risk of acquiring Salmonella. If possible, dead prey rather than live should be offered to your reptile.

About Ferrets

Zoonosis transmitted by pet ferrets are quite rare. Intestinal parasites are common in young ferrets and can potentially be spread to people. PAWS does not recommend that people at risk come in contact with an immature ferret. Ferrets are also susceptible to human influenza and can easily pass it back to the human.

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