WSDA reminds backyard poultry owners to take steps to stay healthy from germ germs like salmonella

Courtesy of the Washington State Department of Agriculture

As families across Washington purchase chicks and ducklings this spring, Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) is reminding backyard poultry owners to take precautions against Salmonella and other germs that can cause infections in people. This reminder comes as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that multistate Salmonella outbreaks linked to backyard poultry have sickened 184 people across 31 states, with more than one-fourth of these illnesses occurring in children younger than 5 years old.

Backyard poultry, including chickens and ducks, can carry Salmonella germs even when they appear healthy and clean. The bacteria can spread through contact with birds, their droppings, uncooked eggs, feed and water containers, and surfaces where poultry live and roam. Through good flock management and sanitation and good hygiene are an important part of raising poultry.

Symptoms of Salmonella infection in people can include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. Illness usually begins 6 hours to 6 days after exposure and typically lasts 4 to 7 days. Young children, adults 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems, are at higher risk for severe illness. While most people recover, Salmonella infection can lead to hospitalization, and in rare cases, can cause death.
Raising backyard poultry is rewarding, and practicing good hygiene and biosecurity helps keep both people and animals healthy.

Biosecurity for backyard poultry

WSDA encourages poultry owners to follow these biosecurity practices to help protect flock health and reduce disease risk:

·      Purchase birds from reputable NPIP certified hatcheries or reputable suppliers (NPIP = National Poultry Improvement Plan)

·      Quarantine new birds for at least 30 days before introducing them to an existing flock

·      Prevent contact between backyard poultry and wild birds or rodents

·      Keep feed dry and ensure feed and water systems are clean and protected from contamination from pests and other birds or animals

·      Clean and disinfect coops, feeders, and water containers regularly

·      Limit visitors to your poultry housing areas

·      Use dedicated footwear and clothing when working with poultry

·      Do not bring poultry equipment or birds into the home, including chicks and ducklings

Safe handling practices and hygiene practices

Salmonella can spread through contact with poultry or anything in their environment, including contaminated surfaces.
To reduce risk:

Employ safe food handling practices and cook poultry to 165° F

Collect eggs daily, throw away any cracked eggs, and cook all eggs until both white and yolk are firm

Do not eat or drink while working with poultry or areas where they live or roam

Clean feeders, waterers, and other equipment outdoors 

Keep poultry and poultry supplies outside and away from areas where food is prepared

Use dedicated shoes or boots for coop areas and avoid wearing them inside the house

Children younger than 5 years old should not handle poultry or items in areas where birds live and roam

Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after contact with birds, eggs, or coop environments

When to contact a veterinarian

Backyard flock owners should consult a veterinarian if they observe:

·      Sudden illness or increased mortality in the flock

·      Decreased appetite or activity

·      Changes in droppings or overall condition

·      Unexpected drops in egg production

Health officials typically see an increase in Salmonella cases during the spring and early summer as people purchase new backyard poultry. Officials encourage flock owners to practice good hygiene and biosecurity year-round.

For more information, visit Backyard Poultry | Washington State Department of Health
Additional resources, WSDA Blogs: Chick Days are here: How to raise healthy, happy hens
Chicks 101: A beginners guide to raising happy, healthy chickens
USDA: Defend the flock