The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently completed an investigation into the spread of salmonella from backyard poultry. This year, salmonella sickened 1,135 people in forty-eight states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Nearly three hundred people were hospitalized, and two lost their lives.
In recent years, having a backyard barnyard has become increasingly popular. Chickens, especially, are pets for many families. As fun as it can be to have chickens, ducks, turkeys, and even songbirds in your yard, it's important to remember that they harbor germs like salmonella.
Salmonella causes fever, cramps, diarrhea (including bloody diarrhea), vomiting and dehydration. Although most people recover after five to seven days, some require hospitalization. The elderly and those with a lowered immune system may be especially vulnerable.
People get it by handling or snuggling with the poultry and then ingesting the germs. Below are a few pointers to staying healthy as you enjoy your backyard barnyard:
Do not let poultry into the home.
Resist the urge to kiss your pet hen.
Supervise children around the poultry and teach them safe handling of their pets.
Have a special pair of shoes to wear into the coop or pen.
Wash you hands after holding poultry.
Sanitize pet areas and feeders regularly.
Handle eggs safely.
You can find more information on safe handling of poultry here:
https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/backyardpoultry-05-21/index.html
