The CDC is issuing a warning for anyone who keeps chickens and other poultry in their backyard.
Michigan is among 48 states where a salmonella outbreak has been linked to live poultry.
Nearly 1,000 people have gotten sick, including more than 200 who had to be hospitalized. So far, one death has been reported. Illnesses started on dates ranging from January 4, 2017 to July 31, 2017.
The CDC has the following advice for reducing the chances for salmonella infection:
- Always wash your hands with soap and water right after touching live poultry or anything in the area where they live and roam.
- Don’t let live poultry inside the house, especially in areas where food or drink is prepared, served, or stored.
- Don’t let children younger than 5 years, adults older than 65, or people with weakened immune systems from conditions such as cancer treatment, HIV/AIDS or organ transplants, handle or touch chicks, ducklings, or other live poultry.
- Don’t eat or drink in the area where the birds live or roam.
- Avoid kissing your birds or snuggling them, then touching your mouth.
- Stay outdoors when cleaning any equipment or materials used to raise or care for live poultry, such as cages or feed or water containers.
