WA Salmonella outbreak linked to backyard poultry

OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) is working with local and federal public health partners to investigate 13 cases of Salmonella linked to backyard poultry. Cases have been reported in Kitsap (3), Spokane (2), Yakima (2), King (2), Grant (1), Thurston (1), Skagit, (1) and Cowlitz (1) counties. This is part of a nationwide outbreak that has sickened 104 people in 31 states. In Washington, four people have been hospitalized and no deaths have been reported.

Salmonella is a bacteria that can be found in poultry manure which can make people sick. Backyard poultry, like chickens and ducks, can carry Salmonella even if they look healthy and clean. The bacteria can easily spread to cages, coops, hay, plants, and soil in the area where they live. People can get sick from Salmonella by touching their mouth or food with unwashed hands.

“If you have a backyard flock, take steps to protect yourself and your family from Salmonella infection,” said Washington State Chief Science Officer Dr. Tao Sheng Kwan-Gett. “Always wash your hands with soap and water after you’ve touched poultry, or soil or objects they’ve had contact with.”

DOH recommends some steps to avoid infection and protect the flock. Don’t kiss or snuggle poultry; don’t eat or drink around poultry; keep poultry and the supplies used to care for them outside of the home; supervise children around birds and children younger than five should not touch birds; and safely handle, cook, and store eggs.

Photo via Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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Elkhorn Media Group

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