CDC Warns Against Water Frogs as Pets Due to Salmonella Concerns

FIRST PERSON | Water frogs, also known as African dwarf frogs, are a favorite pet among young children. They are quite active, which makes them fun to watch. They are easy to care for in their own aquariums or fish tanks. However, the CDC released a statement Wednesday saying that these adorable amphibians are actually hazardous to the health of children.

Like many other reptiles and amphibians, African dwarf frogs can carry Salmonella bacteria. Those highest at risk are children under the age of 5. The CDC says young children should not be anywhere near the amphibians, whether in the home or in the classroom. If frogs are pets in the home, they should definitely not be in the child's bedroom.

This new warning against water frogs as pets is devastating for teachers like me, who love having them in the classroom. Ease of care is a motivating factor in the choice for pets, which also provide educational experiences. My young students adore them and use them for inspiration for story writing and scientific study in our Montessori curriculum. The children eagerly ask to help feed them or care for them over school breaks. In some classrooms, children even assist with changing the water as part of pet care.

The CDC recommends that aquariums containing African dwarf frogs should be cleaned outside the home by an adult who is wearing rubber gloves. They can be cleaned in a bathtub, but then that should be cleaned out with bleach. Under no circumstances should they ever be cleaned in a kitchen sink. Similar precautions would need to be taken in schools, which could prove to be more difficult.

If children do interact with frogs or even other amphibians or reptiles, they should immediately wash their hands with soap and water. They can use antibacterial gel if soap and water is not easily accessible. Some may even wish to do both. If clothing comes in contact with the creatures or the water, it should immediately be removed and laundered.

Such precautions should already be in place whenever children in a daycare or school setting handle frogs and other amphibians or reptiles. Proper handling of creatures is an imperative lesson to learn at a young age. It is also important for children to be able to observe the real creatures instead of always depending on impersonal books or videos. They learn better in the concrete world than in an abstract environment, especially at this young age.

Salmonella bacterial poisoning is a very serious health problem. Common symptoms include abdominal cramping, fever, and diarrhea. In some cases it becomes severe enough to require hospitalization. People in high-risk groups, such as the very young or elderly and those with compromised immune systems, have even died from contamination.

Rethink those aquatic pets and question your child's school or daycare facility if they are present in classrooms.

Sources:

"CDC Warns That Water Frogs Can Make Your Child Sick," CDC

"Reptiles, Amphibians, and Salmonella," CDC

"Salmonella Infection," Mayo Clinic