Maine Salmonella Infections Linked To Backyard Poultry

The CDC and public health officials in Maine, and many other states are investigating several outbreaks of Salmonella infections linked to contact with backyard poultry.

Reports indicate that contact with backyard poultry, such as chicks and ducklings, from multiple hatcheries are the likely source of these outbreaks. People reported getting chicks and ducklings from several sources, including agricultural stores, websites, and hatcheries. Six of the outbreak strains making people sick have been identified in samples collected from backyard poultry environments at people’s homes.

As of August 23, 2019, a total of 1003 people infected with the outbreak strains of Salmonella have been reported from 49 states, with Maine having one of the highest infection rates in the country.

CLICK HERE for more information from the CDC on best practices if you have or are around live poultry.