Feds probe multi-state salmonella outbreaks linked to backyard poultry

Federal health officials are investigating several multistate outbreaks of poultry-related salmonella infections, saying more than 200 Americans have been affected so far this year, with one death.

Already in vogue in some parts of the United States, the earthly hobby of rearing herds in the backyard became even more popular during the pandemic, as Americans settled at home. coops with an eye on fresh eggs and animal company. But these efforts in agriculture in a short time can have a cost.

A total of 219 illnesses have been reported in 38 states, including 27 hospitalizations and one death in Tennessee, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Friday. The actual tally is likely to be much higher, as many people recover without seeking medical attention, the agency said.

Salmonella outbreaks related to backyard herds occur annually and coincide with the increase in chick purchases, starting in the spring, the CDC said. Last year, 1,135 Americans became ill from contact with poultry, including chickens, hens, roosters and turkeys. Of those who became ill, 1 in 4 were children under 5 years of age.

Although most people suffer from diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps and recover without treatment after four or seven days, younger and older people, as well as those with weakened immune systems, may suffer from more illnesses. serious.

Tips to avoid illness

Those with or considering backyard poultry would be wise to consult the CDC guidelines. They include recommendations not to eat or drink when near an outside herd and to always wash your hands with soap and running water after touching birds. Families with young children need to be especially aware, as children often feel like touching birds with their hands that are often put in their mouths.

Many of those interviewed in outbreaks are poultry owners for the first time who do not know that animals can carry germs, according to the CDC. There is also a misconception that if an animal is healthy, it cannot carry salmonella; in fact, chickens can carry salmonella in their gut without hurting them.

Another myth is that all chickens have salmonella, a falsehood that encourages people to feed animals with antibiotics. This could lead to more virulent strains of antibiotic-resistant salmonella bacteria, according to the agency.

Unrelated to salmonella outbreaks, bird flu has been confirmed in 183 herds in the backyard, leading to the destruction of tens of thousands of home-produced birds, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health.

The public health risk of bird flu is considered low, with one person testing positive earlier this year after working with poultry in Colorado, the CDC said in April. Since then, the patient has recovered, he noted.