The CDC has recently investigated a salmonella outbreak across six states, one of them being Missouri. These cases appear to be linked to backyard poultry.

Salmonella causes diarrhea, fever and stomach pain. Most cases won’t last more than a week and are self-limited. However, sometimes people cannot kick this without antibiotics. If you experience any diarrheal illness lasting more than a week you should make an appointment to see your doctor.

Sadly, some cases of salmonella can be severe (more likely in small children and the elderly) requiring hospitalization, and it can even be deadly. So taking hygiene seriously is always a good idea.

Following common sense hygiene steps can reduce your odds of contracting this infection:

  • Always wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water after touching birds, their supplies or collecting eggs.
  • Always wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water after touching any reptiles (lizards, snakes, turtles, etc. whether it is wild or a pet).
  • Use a dedicated pair of shoes or boots for your coop and do not wear them inside your home.
  • Protect young children, who are more likely to put their hands in their mouths, by directly supervising them around these animals and teaching them good hand washing techniques.
  • When cooking, immediately wash your hands after touching raw poultry or eggs. Thoroughly clean any surface that raw poultry touched.
  • Cook poultry completely through. Never consume raw or undercooked poultry or eggs.