Ted Pestorius] Nina, is there anything people need to do to protect themselves against Bartonella?
[Nina Marano] Well, yes. People should know where their pets are coming from. Did the pet come from a reputable breeding facility or was it taken from the wild? Prospective owners should inspect the pet to make sure it doesnt have fleas and that it appears to be robust and in good health. Be especially careful if you have children who interact with these pets. Kids who are under age 5 interact with pets very intimately. They kiss them, handle them, and let them walk all over them. A 2008 article released by the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended that small animals should not be kept by children under age 5. Enjoy pets, but maintain precautions that can be found on CDCs Healthy Pets Healthy People website at www.cdc.gov/healthypets. [Ted Pestorius] And whats the public health importance of this article? [Nina Marano] This article is very relevant to our lifestyles and preferences as pet owners. Humans can be unnecessarily exposed to Bartonella. Some people want these small exoti
