HOLLAND (WHTC-AM/FM) — The CDC issued a warning that backyard chickens have been linked to a salmonella outbreak in 21 states, so far.
Michigan, Illinois and Ohio, are among the states affected.
So far, 52 cases have been confirmed, with five people landing in hospitals for treatment. No deaths have been reported.
The majority of people got sick after handling ducklings or baby chicks, according to the CDC.
Federal recommendations for safety include these tips:
- Always wash your hands with soap and water right after touching backyard poultry or anything in the area where they live and roam.
- Adults should supervise handwashing by young children.
- Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not readily available.
- Don’t let backyard poultry inside the house, especially in areas where food or drink is prepared, served, or stored.
- Set aside a pair of shoes to wear while taking care of poultry and keep those shoes outside of the house.
- Children younger than 5, adults over 65, and people with weakened immune systems shouldn’t handle or touch chicks, ducklings, or 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, such as cages, or feed or water containers.
