Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Backyard Poultry Sickens 34 Across 13 States

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced a multistate outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to contact with backyard poultry, sickening 34 people across 13 states as of April 23, 2026. Among those infected, 13 have been hospitalized, and no deaths have been reported.

The outbreak involves the Salmonella Saintpaul strain, with illness onset dates ranging from February 26 to March 31, 2026. Cases were distributed as follows: Michigan reported the highest number of infections with six cases, followed by Ohio and Wisconsin, each with five cases. Additional cases were identified in Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Mississippi, New Hampshire, Tennessee, and West Virginia.

According to the CDC, children under five years old accounted for 41 percent of all cases, and the patient age range spanned from under one year to 78 years, with an average age of 12. Of the 27 individuals with available clinical data, 13 required hospitalization.

Investigative efforts revealed that among 29 people interviewed, 23 (79 percent) reported contact with backyard poultry in the week preceding illness onset. Traceback investigations found that 13 of 14 poultry owners had acquired their birds since January 1, 2026, frequently from retail farm supply stores.

Laboratory analysis using whole-genome sequencing showed that the Salmonella bacteria isolated from patients were closely related genetically, indicating a likely common source.

The CDC emphasizes that backyard poultry, including chickens and ducks, can carry Salmonella germs even when they appear healthy and clean. Infection occurs when individuals touch birds, their environment, or contaminated surfaces and then transfer the bacteria to their mouth via unwashed hands.

To reduce the risk of infection, the CDC recommends the following precautions:

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after handling poultry, their supplies, or collecting eggs.
• Use dedicated shoes or boots for coop maintenance and avoid wearing them indoors.
• Keep poultry and related equipment outside the home to prevent indoor contamination.
• Do not allow children under five years old to handle birds or items in their living areas.
• Source poultry from hatcheries that implement measures to reduce Salmonella contamination.
• Clean and sanitize poultry display areas between shipments and provide handwashing stations at retail locations.

Many individuals infected with Salmonella recover without seeking medical care or undergoing testing, and confirmation of cases can take three to four weeks. The actual number of illnesses may be higher than currently reported.

The CDC continues to monitor the outbreak and advises anyone experiencing symptoms of Salmonella infection — such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps — to consult a healthcare provider, especially if symptoms are severe or persistent.