WASHINGTON — Public health officials are reminding people with backyard chickens or ducks to take important health safety steps around their flock as the CDC investigates multistate outbreaks of salmonella. At least 109 people have gotten sick since late February across 29 states, with 33 hospitalizations. Data shows contact with backyard poultry is what's making people sick, according to the CDC.
The states with the most cases are Missouri, Texas and Oklahoma. Even if they look healthy and clean, backyard poultry like chickens and ducks can carry salmonella bacteria, which easily spreads in the areas where the animals live and roam. If you have backyard chickens or ducks, here are ways to stay healthy.
Contact a healthcare provider if you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as:.
