CDC: Hundreds sick, one dead in nationwide Salmonella outbreak

A nationwide outbreak of salmonella is growing rapidly, increasing from 212 cases on July 24 to 938 as of July 28. More than 150 people have been hospitalized with the infection, and one person died. Patients have ranged in age from 1 to 94 years. CDC believes the outbreak is linked to chicks and ducklings kept in backyards. Kentucky and Tennessee are currently the hardest hit states, but every other state except Hawaii and Rhode Island has recorded at least one case. CDC testing of backyard poultry revealed three outbreak strains. “You can get sick with a Salmonella infection from touching backyard poultry or their environment. Backyard poultry can carry Salmonella bacteria even if they look healthy and clean and show no signs of illness,” the investigation notice warns. CDC has warned of the importance of proper hand hygiene after touching backyard poultry. Symptoms of a salmonella infection include diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps. Most people most people recover without treatment, and the illness typically lasts 4-7 days.