ATLANTA, Ga. (WKBT) — Backyard poultry setups are responsible for an increasing multistate outbreak of salmonella infections, according to the federal Centers for Disease Prevention and Control and state health officials.
More than 310 cases have been reported since the CDC’s previous update on May 20, with a total of 474 people sickened in 46 states, including Wisconsin and Minnesota, according to a CDC investigation notice issued Thursday. Just over 100 people have been hospitalized, and one person died in Indiana, the CDC reported.
One-third of the victims are children younger than 5, the CDC says.
“The true number of sick people is likely much higher than the reported number, as many people recover without medical care and are not tested for salmonella,” the CDC notice says.
“Backyard poultry can carry salmonella germs even if they look healthy and clean,” according to the CDC, which said the germs can spread easily.
“Whether you are building your first coop or are a seasoned backyard poultry owner, know the risks of keeping poultry and the steps you can take to stay healthy,” the CDC advises.
With the increasing popularity of raising chickens in backyards, the federal agency offered several tips to stay healthy, including:
* Wash your hands for 20 seconds after touching the flock or flock supplies.
* Keep flock and flock supplies outside of your home to prevent spreading germs into the house.
Don’t let children younger than 5 touch the birds, including chicks and ducklings, or anything in the area where the birds live and roam.
Don’t kiss or snuggle the birds, which can spread germs to your mouth.
Salmonella facts:
Most people infected with salmonella develop diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps six hours to six days after being exposed to the bacteria.
The illness usually lasts four to seven days, and most people recover without treatment.
In some people, the illness may be so severe that it requires hospitalization.
Children younger than 5, adults 65 and older and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to contract a severe illness.
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