Backyard Chickens: Why CDCs Say They're a Health Hazard



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Two hundred and twelve people have been suffering from salmonellosis since February because of poultry, the agency said Monday. Diseases have been reported in 44 states.
This is the tenth time since 2011 that the CDC has announced an epidemic due to live poultry. According to the agency, 70 Salmonella outbreaks related to live poultry have been reported since 2000.

"Many people think that a bird with salmonella will look sick, but this is not the case. Is really not the case, "Dr. Megin Nichols, a CDC Veterinarian, told CNN after an outbreak last year. The birds carry the bacteria on their feathers, on their feet and in their droppings.

Symptoms of salmonella begin 12 to 72 hours after infection and include diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps. This can take four to seven days and most people recover without treatment. However, those who develop severe diarrhea may need to be hospitalized. Thirty-four people were hospitalized as part of this latest outbreak.

Those who are very young, who are very old or who have a compromised immune system are most at risk for complications and serious cases of illness.

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The trend of these birds has probably contributed to the increase of these diseases, said Nichols, as more and more people want to know where their food comes from and provide them for themselves.

Before committing to keeping chickens, Nichols suggests reading about animal care. The CDC offers some tips to help you master some good practices, such as the US Department of Agriculture on its Biosecurity for Birds page.

But the basics start by washing your hands with soap and water after touching the birds or anything. their environment. The equipment, including bowls of food and water, can also be contaminated by bacteria.

To avoid stalking bacteria elsewhere, use a separate pair of shoes to care for the chickens and do not carry them indoors. And, of course, keep the birds on the outside, too, so that they do not follow the bacteria in your home.

Children under 5 should be monitored whenever they handle these animals because they are particularly susceptible to infection. they often put their hands in their mouths. Make sure you teach them how to handle animals.

If you collect the eggs from your chicken, wash them well before using them and cook them thoroughly before eating

. and the ducklings came from multiple sources, including food stores, websites, hatcheries and other people. The CDC reminds food stores and mail order hatcheries that sell animals to take steps to prevent the presence of salmonella in herds.
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