Iguanas belong to lizard category and they will damage the yard significantly. There are many people in the US who consider them as favorite pets due to their bright color and calm nature. However, they are not aware of the diseases caused by them properly.
This is because they can carry a lot of germs including viruses, bacteria, worms, parasites, and other insects which are not visible to human eyes. Iguanas can cause infections to children and pets in a yard that need more protection. Moreover, they transmit diseases to human beings when they visit frequently to a yard.
Here are some diseases caused by iguanas and one should aware of them in detail to minimize health risks.
- Salmonella
Salmonella is a common one found in all types of reptiles including iguanas. It is a contamination that spreads through facal-oral transmission. For instance, children or infants may become infected when they drink contaminated bottled water of reptile faeces. The infection can lead to diarrhoea, fever, stomach cramps, headaches and other symptoms that result in discomforts. Sometimes, the condition may lead to severe dehydration which requires special attention.
- Botulism
Botulism is mainly caused by the Clostridium bacterium which releases a toxin substance that can cause life threatening symptoms. It is found widely in the soil and mud and iguanas carry the bacteria because they live close to the ground. A recent study by HPSC says that reptiles such as iguanas are not appropriate pets for children who are under the age of five. It is advisable to wash hands with hot soapy water immediately after touching the reptiles.
- Campylobacteriosis
It is a type of infection caused by the bacteria Campylobacter that can cause several symptoms. They include abdominal pains, diarrhoea, fever, and headaches within 2-5 days after swallowing the bacterium.
- Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a common infection found in iguanas caused by a certain type of bacteria that leads to several problems. It is mainly spread through the urine of the reptiles when a person touches them. Some of the symptoms caused by this condition include severe headaches, flu-like illness, and liver disease.
How to avoid diseases caused by iguanas?
Anyone who wants to avoid diseases caused by iguanas should follow certain tips for living a problem less life. It is necessary to maintain the yard in clean condition by removing the leftover of foods and other things.
Homeowners should prevent the entry of iguanas by securing the trash lids effectively. Furthermore, it is advisable to close the holes and gaps in a yard with cement, gravel, or dirt. This, in turn, gives ways to avoid the formation of a nest to prevent the laying of eggs.
