[ad_1]
BOISE, Idaho – The Center for Disease Control says that an outbreak of salmonella in several states that has sickened hundreds of people in the country is linked to contact with backyard poultry.
So far, 279 people in 41 states – including Idaho – have been infected with the epidemic strain of Salmonella this year. According to the CDC, four of these cases were in Idaho.
RELATED: You Can Grow It: Raising Backyard Chickens
Forty people had to be hospitalized because of the illness, but no one died. Those who became ill go from early childhood to 92 years old.
Salmonella is a bacterial infection that causes diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps. Some people also have nausea, vomiting and headaches.
The disease can be life threatening, especially in rare cases where the infection spreads into the patient's bloodstream. Young children, the elderly and people with immune system problems are the most vulnerable to serious infections.
According to the CDC, out of 153 respondents in the current outbreak, 77% reported being in contact with backyard poultry before becoming ill. Patients reported buying chickens from a variety of sources, including agricultural produce stores, websites and hatcheries.
MORE: Food recalls increase due to foodborne illness and what you need to know about them
Those who have or handle backyard poultry should always wash their hands with soap and water immediately after touching birds or anything in their area, including cages and equipment. In addition, people should not let chickens enter the house and must stay outside to clean cages, feeders, water dispensers or other equipment.
For more information on disease prevention, click here.
[ad_2]
Source link