At least 34 people sickened with drug-resistant salmonella infections linked to backyard poultry
KCRG • • health
Key Points:
- At least 34 people across 13 states have been infected with salmonella linked to contact with backyard poultry, with some cases showing resistance to common antibiotics, according to the CDC.
- The illnesses occurred between February 26 and March 31, affecting individuals aged 1 to 78, with over 40% of cases involving children under 5 years old.
- Nearly 80% of those interviewed reported contact with backyard poultry, most of whom acquired the birds since January from various sources including agricultural retail stores.
- Some bacterial samples showed resistance to multiple antibiotics, raising concerns about treatment challenges and potential severe outcomes.
- The CDC advises thorough handwashing after handling poultry and avoiding close contact such as kissing or snuggling birds to prevent infection, especially for vulnerable populations like young children and those with weakened immune systems.
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