Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Backyard poultry such as chickens and ducks can carry Salmonella germs even if they appear healthy and clean. These germs may spread to anything in areas where the poultry live and roam. People can become ill by touching the birds or their environment and then putting their hands in their mouths or on food.
The CDC advises always washing hands with soap and water immediately after contact with backyard poultry, their eggs, or living areas. If soap and water are unavailable, use hand sanitizer. Keeping hand sanitizer at the poultry coop is recommended for convenience.
The CDC also urges people not to kiss or snuggle backyard poultry and to avoid eating or drinking near them. Supplies used to care for poultry, such as feed containers and coop shoes, should be cleaned and stored outside the house.
Children under five should not handle chicks, ducklings, or other backyard poultry or visit their living areas, as young children are more likely to get sick from Salmonella.
Eggs should be collected often to prevent them from becoming dirty or breaking. Discard cracked eggs, as germs can enter through cracks. Clean dirty eggs gently with fine sandpaper, a brush, or cloth; avoid washing them with cold water, which may cause germs to enter. Refrigerate eggs to maintain freshness and slow germ growth.
Poultry sellers should source birds from hatcheries following USDA best management practices or those participating in the USDA National Poultry Improvement Plan Salmonella Monitored Program. Clean poultry display areas thoroughly between shipments, including removing dirt and applying disinfectants.