6 states are being affected.
A recent salmonella outbreak connected to backyard poultry has resulted in at least seven reported illnesses across six U.S. states, according to an announcement from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The affected states include Missouri, which reported two cases, and Florida, Illinois, South Dakota, Utah, and Wisconsin, each with one case. These infections were documented during February and March of this year.
Health authorities noted that all infected individuals had contracted the same strain of salmonella, which has previously been associated with poultry hatcheries. Officials are still working to determine the exact source of the current outbreak, and the investigation remains active.
Salmonella is a frequently occurring bacteria in the U.S., responsible for over a million infections annually. Transmission often happens through consuming or handling contaminated food and animals. Backyard poultry, although popular among hobbyists and small-scale farmers, continues to be a source of concern due to the potential for the birds to carry salmonella without showing signs of illness.
In previous years, similar outbreaks have been tied to contact with live poultry. For instance, a 2023 outbreak linked to backyard flocks resulted in 470 cases nationwide and led to one fatality. Other recent salmonella incidents have involved various food items and even pet reptiles.
To help prevent infection, the CDC recommends that people thoroughly wash their hands after interacting with backyard poultry and avoid eating or touching their face during such interactions. These precautions can reduce the risk of exposure to harmful bacteria.
Discussion about this post