ST.CLAIR COUNTY, Mich. – The St. Clair County Health Department (SCCHD) has identified the first local case of salmonella linked to a multistate outbreak.
The outbreak is associated with contact with backyard poultry, including baby chicks and ducklings.
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SCCHD recommended precautions when handling poultry and cleaning areas where birds live or roam.
Salmonella bacteria are commonly found in poultry droppings and can spread easily to people.
Germs may also be present on birds’ feathers, feet, beaks, cages, coops and surrounding environments.
Poultry can carry salmonella even when they appear healthy
People can become infected after handling poultry or touching contaminated surfaces.
Germs can spread to hands, shoes and clothing, especially after working or playing in areas where birds are kept.
Symptoms of salmonella infection may include diarrhea, vomiting, fever and stomach cramps lasting four to seven days or longer.
Young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems are at greater risk for severe illness.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following steps to help prevent salmonella infection from backyard poultry.
• Children younger than 5 years old, older adults and people with weakened immune systems should avoid handling chicks, ducklings or other poultry.
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching birds or anything in their environment. Adults should supervise handwashing for young children.
• If soap and water are not immediately available, use hand sanitizer until hands can be washed properly.
• Clean cages, feeders, water containers and other poultry equipment outdoors whenever possible.
• Keep poultry away from areas where food or drinks are prepared, served or stored, including kitchens and patios.
• Avoid eating, drinking or touching your mouth while handling poultry or items from their environment.
• Do not keep live poultry inside homes or other living spaces.
• Do not give live baby poultry as gifts to young children.
Additional poultry health and safety information is available at CDC Backyard Poultry Safety
Anyone who believes they or their child may have a salmonella infection should contact a health care provider.
For more information about the St. Clair County Health Department, visit scchealth.co , call (810) 987-5300, or follow @scchdmi on social media