Federal and state health officials are currently investigating three multistate outbreaks of Salmonella infections all linked to contact with chicks, ducklings and other live poultry, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In the past week, health departments in four states — Minnesota, Nebraska, New Mexico and South Dakota — have announced Salmonella illnesses linked to live poultry that are also part of wider, multistate outbreaks. On Thursday the CDC confirmed not one, but three separate multistate outbreaks of Salmonella Infantis, Salmonella Mbandaka and Salmonella Typhimurium. Minnesota has been the only state to further identify its cases as Salmonella Infantis infections. The known case count currently sits at 20, with illnesses by state as follows: Minnesota (3), Nebraska (6), New Mexico (7) and South Dakota (4). It is unclear how many more states, if any, are involved in the outbreaks. “In interviews, ill people reported purchasing live baby poultry (chicks, ducklings) from multiple feed stores and mail-order hatcheries,” the CDC advisory read. “Investigations are ongoing to determine the source of the live poultry in these outbreaks.” Health professionals recommend thoroughly washing hands after handling live poultry, and making sure young children do not snuggle or kiss birds. Last month, Food Safety News produced a video on safe handling of chicks in anticipation of chick season. Watch that video below:
