Advice to Consumers

Multistate Outbreak of Human Salmonella Infections Linked to Live Poultry in Backyard Flocks (Final Update)

Posted October 26, 2012 3:30 PM ET

Salmonella is an important cause of human illness in the United States. More information about Salmonella, and steps people can take to reduce their risk of infection, can be found on the CDC Salmonella Web Page and the CDC Vital Signs Web Page.

Chick and Duckling

Chick and Duckling

Advice to Consumers

Live poultry can be carrying Salmonella but appear healthy and clean and show no signs of illness. Therefore, you should always follow these recommendations for protecting yourself and others from contact with live poultry:

  • Consumers who own live poultry should be familiar with the recommendations to protect yourself and your family from illness.
  • Remember that contact with live poultry, including baby or adult birds, can be a source of human Salmonella infections.
  • Always 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.

Advice to Mail-order Hatcheries and Feed Stores That Sell or Display Live Poultry