Nancy,
 
The thing they are probably most concerned about is Salmonella.  Yes, it
absolutely can be passed easily from human hands to ferret bodies.
 
In humans it causes GI problems, a.k.a.  food poisoning (in some cases),
with symptoms such as vomitting & diarrhea.  It can also invade other
mucous membranes, such as the eyes.  You have probably heard it most
commonly associated with raw chicken.
 
I would guess that it would be very dangerous to ferrets, as they are very
small and have more "delicate" systems than we do.
 
ANY reptiles, whether iguana, bearded lizard, or turtle, are capable of
carrying and spreading salmonella.  A good hand-washing after touching such
creatures is always a good idea, especially with creatures associated with
a zoo-like setting.
==
Aileen  :-p
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[Posted in FML issue 2433]