The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is urging people to not kiss or snuggle backyard poultry after recent Salmonella outbreaks.
According to the CDC, 1,003 people have been infected with strains of Salmonella across 49 states. Forty one people have been infected in Texas.
Evidence indicates that contact with backyard poultry, such as chicks and ducklings, are likely the source of these outbreaks, says the CDC.
In an effort to prevent the spread of Salmonella, the CDC is encouraging backyard flock owners to:
- Always wash your hands with soap and water after touching backyard poultry
- Don't let backyard poultry inside the house
- Set aside a pair of shoes to wear while taking care of the poultry. Keep those shoes outside the house.
- Children younger than 5, adults older than 65, and people with health issues should not handle or touch chicks, ducklings, and other poultry.
- Don't eat or drink where poultry live or roam.
- Don't kiss backyard poultry or snuggle them and then touch your face or mouth.
- Stay outdoors when cleaning any equipment or materials used to raise or care for poultry.
According to the CDC, most people infected with Salmonella develop diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps. The illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days.
