A Salmonella Outbreak in 13 States Is Being Tied to Chickens—Here's What to Know

Public health officials in several states are investigating a multi-state outbreak of salmonella illnesses linked to contact with backyard poultry, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

As of April 13, a total of 34 people in 13 states have been infected with the outbreak strain of salmonella saintpaul. Illnesses started between February 26 and March 31. So far, 13 people have been hospitalized in connection with the outbreak. No deaths have been reported.

The CDC notes that "the true number of sick people in an outbreak is likely much higher than the number reported, and the outbreak may not be limited to the states with known illnesses. This is because many people recover without medical care and are not tested for salmonella. In addition, recent illnesses may not yet be reported, as it usually takes 3 to 4 weeks to determine if a sick person is part of an outbreak."

The outbreak has affected people in Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, New Hampshire, Ohio, Tennessee, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.

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Investigators continue to collect information about where the infected people obtained the poultry and which hatcheries supplied the retail stores where the animals were purchased.

The CDC is warning people that backyard poultry, like chickens and ducks, can carry salmonella  germs even if they look healthy and clean. These germs can easily spread to anything in the areas where the poultry live and roam.

Always wash your hands with soap and water immediately after touching backyard poultry, their eggs, or anything in the area where they live.

Most people infected with salmonella typically experience diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, with symptoms usually starting 6 hours to 6 days after swallowing the bacteria, according to the CDC. Most people recover without treatment after 4 to 7 days. Some people, especially children younger than 5, adults 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems, may experience more severe illnesses that require medical treatment or hospitalization.