Salmonella prevalence in US backyard farming

There were two records involving outbreaks of human Salmonella infections in the US in 2012 that linked to live poultry, the CDC has disclosed.

Eight outbreaks were reported which was more than any year in history and these outbreaks resulted in more than 450 illnesses and the largest outbreak of human Salmonella infections linked to backyard flocks in a single year occurred.

CDC is collaborating with public health and agriculture officials in many states and the US Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS) to investigate two large, multistate outbreaks of human Salmonella infections linked to contact with live poultry in backyard flocks.

Live poultry may have Salmonella germs in their droppings and on their bodies (feathers, feet, and beaks) even when they appear healthy and clean, the CDC warns.

To overcome potential problems the CDC reiterates the following measures:

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water right after touching live poultry or anything in the area where they live and roam. Adults should supervise hand washing for young children.

• Clean any equipment or materials associated with raising or caring for live poultry outside the house, such as cages or feed or water containers.

• Never bring live poultry inside the house, in bathrooms, or especially in areas where food or drink is prepared, served, or stored, such as kitchens, or outdoor patios.