CDC Warns of Salmonella Outbreaks from Backyard Poultry

CDC Investigation of Salmonella Outbreaks

Public health officials are investigating multistate outbreaks of Salmonella stemming from contact with backyard poultry, which carries germs that can sicken you.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), any backyard poultry can carry Salmonella germs that can sicken people. Even chickens and ducks that appear healthy and clean can still carry the germs, which can easily spread to anything in the areas where the poultry live and roam.

Preventive Measures and Recommendations

To prevent Salmonella infections, the CDC recommends washing hands with soap and water immediately after touching backyard poultry, their eggs, or anything in the area where they reside. Hand sanitizer can also be used as an alternative. Additionally, avoid snuggling or kissing poultry, eating or drinking around them, and keep their supplies outside of the home to reduce the risk of contamination.