Health officials are reminding backyard poultry owners to take precautions to reduce the risk of salmonella infections. Since January, 184 salmonella cases tied to backyard poultry have been reported across 31 states, including Minnesota.
Researchers with the University of Minnesota, working with the Minnesota Department of Health and Board of Animal Health, say up to 75% of chick shipments to farm stores may carry salmonella bacteria.
Officials say poultry can carry the bacteria without appearing sick, making proper hygiene important when handling birds, eggs, or coop equipment. Symptoms of salmonella infection can include diarrhea, fever, vomiting, and dehydration. Young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of severe illness.
Health experts recommend washing hands after handling poultry, avoiding kissing or cuddling birds, keeping coops clean, refrigerating eggs promptly, and cooking eggs thoroughly. They also encourage flock owners to purchase birds from hatcheries participating in the National Poultry Improvement Plan and to separate new birds from existing flocks for at least 30 days.
More information is available through the University of Minnesota Extension poultry program.
