Michigan health officials warn of rising Salmonella outbreaks linked to backyard poultry
ClickOnDetroit | WDIV Local 4 • • health
Key Points:
- Michigan health officials report 184 Salmonella infections across 31 states linked to backyard poultry, including 21 cases in Michigan, with strains including Salmonella enteritidis, mbandaka, and saintpaul.
- More than 25% of cases involve children under five, and infections are primarily associated with contact with baby chicks and ducklings, which can carry Salmonella without symptoms.
- Salmonella bacteria are commonly found in poultry droppings and can contaminate birds, cages, and surrounding environments, spreading through hands, shoes, and clothing.
- Officials advise keeping baby poultry outdoors, avoiding close contact especially for young children and high-risk groups, practicing thorough handwashing after handling birds, and preventing poultry access to food-preparation areas.
- People experiencing symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, fever, or abdominal cramps after poultry contact should seek medical attention promptly.