Over 1,000 Americans have contracted SALMONELLA this year and it may be linked to cuddling backyard birds, says CDC

There’s been an outbreak of salmonella sweeping across the nation since January, and now the total of those who have contracted the disease has reached over 1,000.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) believe the spread is due to people, mainly kids, “cuddling” pet chickens without washing their hands.

Over 1,000 Americans have now contracted SALMONELLA

The outbreak has hit 49 states and 175 people have been hospitalized, two people have died.

Worryingly, nearly a quarter (24%) of those ill with salmonella were kids, who are “more likely to kiss, cuddle or snuggle with poultry and then not wash their hands as thoroughly.”

Around 8% (10 million) U.S. households keep chickens in their backyard and health officials are urging Americans to keep their birds outdoors.

Adults must make sure they wash their hands, and their children’s hands, after handling the animals.

Salmonella is hard to see

What’s more, people should never let these birds touch their faces or allow these animals into the house, especially in areas with food or drink, warns the CDC.

Salmonella is usually found in feces, which may have touched a bird’s feathers or feet, and is often invisible to see.

Symptoms of the stomach flu infection include diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps.

“The ongoing multistate outbreak of salmonella linked to backyard poultry is the largest we’ve seen this year to date,” a spokesperson for the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention told CBS MoneyWatch. 

About Salmonella

Salmonellosis symptoms include fever, headache, severe diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.

Symptoms usually start around 6 to 72 hours after the contaminated food is eaten and usually lasts for four to seven days but can continue for much longer.

Symptoms and signs of salmonella

• Headaches
• Severe Diarrhoea
• Fever
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Please see your doctor if you are feeling unwell or exhibiting these symptoms.