U.S. reports Salmonella outbreak linked to backyard poultry-Xinhua

The Growing Risk of Backyard Poultry

The trend of backyard poultry farming is on the rise, but so are the health risks associated with it. Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights a recurring pattern of Salmonella outbreaks linked to chickens and ducks kept in residential settings.

In one recent instance, 34 people across 13 U.S. States were infected with the same strain of Salmonella, resulting in 13 hospitalizations. This represents not an isolated event; the CDC has reported large outbreaks tied to backyard poultry in several recent years, including a 2024 outbreak that saw 470 confirmed cases and one death.

Trends in Salmonella Infections

As more people turn to backyard farming, the prevalence of Salmonella infections is steadily increasing. Over the past decade, the CDC has reported a total of 9,923 cases of human salmonellosis across multiple states linked with backyard poultry.

The Rise of Multidrug-Resistant (MDR) Strains

One of the most concerning trends for health experts is the emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains. A significant portion of the cases linked to backyard poultry involve these resistant strains, which can make infections more difficult to treat and underscore a growing public health challenge.

Supply Chain Vulnerabilities

The source of these infections often traces back further than the backyard. Investigations have linked outbreak strains, such as Salmonella Mbandaka, to hatchery shipments. In one specific outbreak that grew to 104 cases, investigators found the outbreak strain in boxes used to ship poultry from hatcheries to agricultural retail stores.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Salmonella infection typically manifests as diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. These symptoms usually appear within six hours to six days after exposure and typically last for four to seven days.

While most people recover without treatment, some infections are severe enough to require hospitalization. Certain groups are at a higher risk for severe illness, including:

• Children younger than five years vintage
• Adults aged 65 and older
• People with weakened immune systems

Essential Safety Practices for Flock Owners

To mitigate the risk of infection, the CDC recommends strict hygiene protocols. The primary goal is to prevent Salmonella germs from reaching your mouth or food.

Hygiene and Handling

Always wash your hands with soap and water immediately after touching backyard poultry, their eggs, or anything in their environment. To further reduce risk, avoid kissing or snuggling your birds and never eat or drink while around your flock.

Environmental Controls

Keep your backyard flock and all care supplies—including feed containers and shoes worn in the coop—outside of the house. All supplies should be cleaned outside the home to prevent bringing bacteria indoors.

Protecting Children and Handling Eggs

Children under five should not touch chicks, ducklings, or other backyard poultry, as they are more likely to get sick. For those who do, adult supervision and proper handwashing are mandatory.

When handling eggs, collect them frequently to prevent them from becoming dirty or breaking. Cracked eggs should be thrown away immediately, as germs on the shell can easily enter through the crack.

Frequently Asked Questions