Many outbreaks of Salmonella occur during the spring months of May through June particularly around Easter. Children may be at risk for acquiring Salmonella after receiving chicks and ducks for Easter gifts because they are less likely to wash their hands after handling or playing with the birds and have more frequent hand to mouth contact than adults. Every year, approximately 40,000 cases of Salmonella infection are reported in the United States. Salmonella bacteria are living microscopic creatures that pass from the feces of animals or people to other animals or people. Because milder cases may go undiagnosed or un-reported the actual number may be 20 to 100 times greater.

Symptoms of Salmonella infection usually begin 12 to 72 hours after exposure and include diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps. Illness usually lasts 4-7 days and most people recover with out treatment. Antibiotics usually are not necessary unless infection spreads to the intestines. Infants, children, the elderly, and persons whose immune systems are compromised are more likely to experience severe illness due to Salmonella that may require treatment and/or hospitalization. Severe forms of Salmonellosis include infections of the blood or lining of the brain. A small amount of people may develop a more severe form of Salmonella infection called Reiter's Syndrome. Reiter's Syndrome causes pain in the joints, irritation of the eyes and painful urination. The syndrome can last for months or even years and can lead to chronic arthritis.

There is no vaccine to prevent Salmonella infection. If at all possible, contact with feces from chicks and ducks should be avoided. After handling chicks and ducks carefully wash your hands and the hands of infants and children with soap and water. Wash your hands after contact with other pets including reptiles (i.e. turtles, snakes, iguanas or lizards.) because they usually carry Salmonella. Keep chicks and ducks away from food preparation areas

Salmonella are a common cause of foodborne illness. To avoid the risk of salmonellosis in other ways: Thoroughly cook poultry, ground beef, and eggs before eating. Avoid eating foods or drinking beverages that contain raw eggs or unpasteurized milk. Wash your hands, kitchen work surfaces, and utensils with soap and hot water immediately after they have come in contact with raw meat, poultry or other foods of animal origin.

If you have any questions or need additional information please contact us. We'll be glad to help.