A salmonella outbreak in six Canadian provinces has been linked to contact with pet snakes and rodents. A notice issued this week counts 92 cases of illness reported between April 2017 and October 2019. The Public Health Agency of Canada says exposure to snakes and rodents is likely the cause of the outbreak. An investigation into the cases found many of the individuals had contact with an animal before becoming sick. Reptiles and rodents can carry salmonella bacteria even if they seem clean and healthy. The agency adds that people can fall ill from contact with the animals or places they have recently roamed. The health notice advises frequent handwashing and safe handling of snakes and rodents and their food to prevent further illnesses. Fifty-two cases were reported in Quebec and the rest were in British Columbia, Ontario, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador.