Six children from southern and eastern Nebraska have recently contracted Salmonella infections, and health officials suspect the illnesses may have been linked to baby ducks or chickens.
The state Department of Health and Human Services says it has confirmed six cases of salmonellosis (the disease caused by Salmonella infection) in children ages 1 through 6, according to the Journal Star. One of the victims was hospitalized and later released.
At least five of the children came into contact with ducklings or chicks in the days preceding their illnesses, according to Leah Bucco-White, a spokesperson for the Nebraska HHS, reported the Journal Star.
However, baby poultry have not yet been conclusively identified as the source of the cases, according to Bucco-White.
Symptoms of salmonellosis generally appear between 6 and 72 hours after exposure, and include fever, chills, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, vomiting and muscle aches.
If you think you or your child may have contracted a Salmonella infection, contact your healthcare provider.
