CDC warns of drug-resistant salmonella infections linked to backyard poultry
Key Points:
- At least 34 people across 13 states have been infected with salmonella linked to 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% being children under five years old; 13 people required hospitalization.
- Nearly 80% of those interviewed reported contact with backyard poultry, mostly acquired since January from various sources including agricultural retail stores, prompting ongoing investigations.
- Some bacterial samples showed resistance to multiple antibiotics, raising concerns about treatment challenges and potential severe outcomes.
- The CDC emphasizes proper hygiene, such as handwashing after handling poultry, and advises against close contact like kissing or snuggling birds to prevent infection.