STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said a salmonella outbreak linked to backyard poultry has now sickened nearly 500 people in the U.S.
The outbreak has caused 474 illnesses in 46 states, and more than 100 hospitalizations, the CDC announced late last week. One death has been reported in Indiana. Data from the agency shows that 15 people in New York have been sickened by salmonella germs.
Since May 20, the CDC said an additional 311 illnesses have been reported, and the agency said it is likely that the actual number of sick people is much higher, since many people recover without medical care and are not tested for salmonella.
About one-third of sick people are young children under the age of five, the CDC said.
Currently, backyard poultry is considered the “likely source” of the outbreak. Even if backyard poultry look clean, salmonella germs can spread in areas where the animals live and roam — easily spreading from their environment to humans through physical contact.
To avoid infection, the CDC recommends washing your hands for 20 seconds after touching poultry or poultry supplies, and to also avoid letting children under the age of five touch the birds.
“Don’t kiss or snuggle the birds, as this can spread germs to your mouth and make you sick,” the CDC said.
Salmonella can cause a multi-day illness that includes diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps. Children under five and adults over the age of 65 are more susceptible to severe salmonella illness.
