Children with Weakened Immune Systems 

Pets sometimes carry germs that can make people sick. The diseases people get from animals are known as zoonotic (zoe-oh-NOT-ic) diseases. People with weakened immune systems are more likely than other people to get certain diseases, including those that animals can carry. 

The following types of animals are considered high-risk for people with weakened immune systems:

• Reptiles (lizards, snakes, turtles, frogs)

• Backyard poultry (chickens, ducks, turkeys, geese)

• Rodents (hamsters, guinea pigs, rats, mice, and other small rodents)

• Exotic pets (monkeys and other wild animals)

People with weakened immune systems should avoid contact with these animals and their environments. If you do touch these animals or items in their environment (like food or cages), wash your hands thoroughly with running water and soap after. People with weakened immune systems should be extra cautious when visiting farms and when in contact with farm animals, including animals at petting zoos and fairs.

Children Younger than 5 Years Old

Children younger than 5 years old are more likely to get sick from germs that animals can carry. This is because young children often touch surfaces that may be contaminated with animal feces (poop), and they are more likely to put their hands in their mouths. Young children are more likely to get a serious illness from germs that animals can carry because their immune systems are still developing. Young children should avoid contact with high-risk animals like reptiles, amphibians, backyard poultry, and rodents.