CDC Warns of Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Backyard Poultry: What You Need to Know

A multistate Salmonella outbreak linked to backyard poultry has sickened 34 people across 13 states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While no deaths have been reported, 13 individuals have been hospitalized, highlighting the risks associated with handling chickens, ducks and other backyard birds—even when they appear healthy.

Salmonella infections can cause severe illness, particularly in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. The CDC’s investigation underscores the importance of proper hygiene and safety measures when interacting with backyard flocks.

Key Details of the Outbreak

• Cases: 34 confirmed illnesses across 13 states.
• Hospitalizations: 13 individuals, with no reported deaths.
• States Affected: Michigan (6 cases), Wisconsin (5), Ohio (5), Indiana (3), Kentucky (3), Maine (3), and seven other states.
• Age Distribution: 41% of cases involve children under 5 years old.
• Illness Onset: Reported between February 26 and March 31, 2026.

The outbreak strain, Salmonella Saintpaul, has been traced to contact with backyard poultry. Of the 29 individuals interviewed by investigators, 79% reported recent contact with backyard birds, and 93% of those who owned poultry had acquired them since January 1, 2026. Sources included agricultural retail stores and other suppliers.

How Salmonella Spreads from Backyard Poultry

Backyard poultry can carry Salmonella bacteria without showing any signs of illness. The germs spread through:

• Direct contact with birds, their eggs, or their environment.
• Touching surfaces or objects contaminated with fecal matter (e.g., coops, feed containers, or shoes worn in the coop).
• Ingesting bacteria after touching the mouth, food, or face with unwashed hands.

The CDC emphasizes that even clean-looking birds can transmit the bacteria, making hygiene critical for anyone handling poultry or their supplies.

Who Is Most at Risk?

While anyone can contract Salmonella, certain groups face higher risks of severe illness:

• Children under 5: Their immune systems are still developing, and they are more likely to set their hands or objects in their mouths.
• Adults over 65: Age-related weakening of the immune system increases vulnerability.
• People with weakened immune systems: Conditions like HIV/AIDS, cancer, or diabetes can reduce the body’s ability to fight infections.

The CDC reports that 41% of cases in this outbreak involve children under 5, underscoring the need for extra precautions around young kids and backyard flocks.

How to Stay Safe Around Backyard Poultry

The CDC recommends the following steps to reduce the risk of Salmonella infection:

Hand Hygiene

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after touching birds, their eggs, or anything in their environment.
• Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable, but wash hands as soon as possible afterward.
• Keep hand sanitizer near the coop for easy access.

Safe Handling Practices

• Avoid kissing, snuggling, or eating/drinking near backyard poultry.
• Designate a pair of shoes or boots for use in the coop and keep them outside the home.
• Store poultry supplies (e.g., feed containers) outside the house to prevent contamination.
• Supervise children around poultry and ensure they wash their hands immediately afterward.

Special Precautions for Children

• Children under 5 should not handle chicks, ducklings, or other backyard poultry.
• Avoid allowing young children to play in areas where poultry live or roam.

Egg Safety

• Collect eggs frequently to prevent them from becoming dirty or cracked.
• Discard cracked eggs, as bacteria can enter through the shell.
• Refrigerate eggs promptly after collection to slow bacterial growth.
• Cook eggs thoroughly (until both the yolk and white are firm) to kill any potential bacteria.

What Businesses Should Do

Agricultural retailers and hatcheries play a critical role in preventing Salmonella outbreaks. The CDC advises businesses to:

• Source poultry from hatcheries that implement Salmonella reduction measures.
• Clean and sanitize poultry display areas between shipments.
• Provide handwashing stations or hand sanitizers near poultry displays and encourage customers to use them.

Recognizing Salmonella Symptoms

Salmonella infection typically causes the following symptoms within 6 hours to 6 days after exposure:

• Diarrhea (sometimes bloody)
• Fever
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache

Symptoms usually last 4 to 7 days, but severe cases may require hospitalization. Seek medical attention if you or a family member experience:

• Diarrhea lasting more than 3 days.
• High fever (over 102°F).
• Blood in the stool.
• Signs of dehydration (e.g., dizziness, dry mouth, or reduced urination).

FAQs About Salmonella and Backyard Poultry

Can I get Salmonella from eggs?

Yes. Even clean, uncracked eggs can carry Salmonella bacteria on their shells or inside the egg. Always cook eggs thoroughly and avoid consuming raw or undercooked eggs from backyard flocks.

How can I clean my coop safely?

Wear gloves when cleaning the coop and wash your hands afterward. Remove manure and soiled bedding regularly, and disinfect surfaces with a solution of 1 tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water. Keep cleaning supplies outside the home.

Is it safe to keep backyard poultry in urban areas?

Many cities allow backyard poultry, but regulations vary. Check local ordinances before acquiring birds. Regardless of location, follow CDC guidelines to minimize health risks.

What should I do if my child touches a backyard bird?

Supervise children closely and ensure they wash their hands immediately with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Avoid letting them touch their face or eat until their hands are clean.

Key Takeaways

• Backyard poultry can carry Salmonella bacteria even if they appear healthy.
• 34 people across 13 states have been sickened in the latest outbreak, with 13 hospitalizations.
• Children under 5 are at higher risk and should avoid handling poultry.
• Always wash hands after touching birds, their eggs, or their environment.
• Cook eggs thoroughly and avoid eating or drinking near poultry.
• Seek medical attention for severe symptoms like prolonged diarrhea or high fever.

Looking Ahead

The CDC continues to investigate the outbreak, including tracing the source of the poultry linked to infections. As backyard poultry ownership grows in popularity, public awareness of Salmonella risks remains critical. By following hygiene best practices, flock owners can enjoy the benefits of backyard birds while protecting their families and communities from preventable illness.

For the latest updates, visit the CDC’s outbreak investigation page.