A multistate Salmonella outbreak linked to backyard poultry has sickened at least seven people across six states, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced Friday. The CDC is investigating the outbreak, urging caution for those who raise chickens, ducks, geese, guinea fowl and turkeys.
The agency’s investigation, detailed in a public notice, highlights the risk of Salmonella infection even when birds appear healthy. Individuals can contract the illness by coming into contact with poultry or their environment – including coops, feed, and even dedicated footwear – and subsequently touching their mouths or food.
“Backyard poultry, like chickens and ducks, can carry Salmonella germs even if they look healthy and clean,” the CDC stated. “You can get sick from touching your backyard poultry, or anything in their environment, and then touching your mouth or food and swallowing Salmonella germs.”
Symptoms of Salmonella infection typically include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, appearing six hours to six days after exposure. While most individuals recover within four to seven days without treatment, severe cases requiring hospitalization are possible, particularly among young children, older adults, and those with compromised immune systems.
The CDC recommends thorough handwashing with soap and running water for 20 seconds after any contact with poultry, their supplies, or their living areas. The agency as well advises designating specific shoes or boots for coop leverage and keeping them separate from indoor footwear. Maintaining a clean separation between birds and the home environment is also crucial.
Specific guidance is offered for families with young children. The CDC strongly advises against allowing children under five years old to touch birds or anything within their environment, citing their increased vulnerability and potential for inadequate hand hygiene. Adult supervision is essential for older children.
The CDC’s announcement also extends to businesses involved in the poultry supply chain. Hatcheries are urged to implement best management practices to minimize Salmonella contamination, and stores are advised to source poultry from hatcheries prioritizing contamination reduction. Sanitation of poultry display areas between shipments is also recommended.
This outbreak is not an isolated incident. Data analyzed by the CDC between 2015 and 2022 revealed 88 multistate outbreaks of salmonellosis associated with backyard poultry, resulting in 7,866 outbreak-related illnesses caused by 21 different Salmonella serotypes. Salmonella Enteritidis was the most prevalent serotype, accounting for 21 outbreaks and 2,400 illnesses.
As of Friday, the CDC had not announced any recalls related to the current outbreak. The agency has directed inquiries regarding specific cases to state health departments. The investigation remains ongoing, with no definitive source identified.
