Salmonella Outbreak Linked To Backyard Chickens: CDC

A salmonella outbreak that has infected over 100 people in the U.S. is being linked to contact with backyard chickens and the CDC is advising people to follow proper recommendations when handling a backyard chicken flock. The CDC also said that 31 percent of those who became infected with salmonella are under the age of 5.

As of June 1, 124 cases have been reported in 36 states and 21 of those people have been hospitalized. For those who became ill and had information available, 74 percent reported having contact with chicks or ducklings in the week before their illness started.

Since 2000, the CDC says there have been 70 salmonella outbreaks linked to backyard chickens.

The illnesses in the current outbreak began between Feb. 2 and May 14, according to the CDC.

The CDC says people can become infected with salmonella from touching live poultry as the birds can be carrying salmonella even though they appear healthy and clean.

Here are some steps the CDC recommends people with backyard chickens take to stay safe:

• Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water right after touching live poultry or anything in their environment.
• Don’t let children younger than 5 years handle or touch live poultry without adult supervision.
• Set aside a pair of shoes to wear while taking care of your birds and keep those outside of your home.
• Do not let live poultry inside the house, in bathrooms, or especially in areas where food or drink is prepared, served, or stored, such as kitchens or outdoor patios.

You can find more detailed recommendations here.

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