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The CDC is investigating backyard chicken farms as a potential source of a salmonella outbreak in several states that has resulted in over 200 cases and one death.
The agency released a notice Thursday warning people with backyard farms to regularly use hand sanitizer to protect themselves from the virus.
According to the latest numbers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 219 cases have been detected in 38 states, resulting in 27 hospitalizations and one death.
Many chickens can carry germs that lead to salmonella infection, which can cause serious illness and even death in humans.
The infection causes about 400 deaths in the U.S. each year, but usually because people undercook infected chicken at home and become infected.
The CDC warns that Americans with backyard chicken flocks are at risk of contracting salmonella. More than 200 cases and one death have been linked to backyard flock transmission (file photo)
“Do you have a herd in the back yard?” the agency wrote on Twitter.
'Quick Tip: Keep a bottle of hand sanitizer in your stable! Many people in the U.S. have become ill with salmonella from contact with backyard poultry, but you can stay healthy around your flock.'
The agency warns that flocks of chickens and ducks in particular can cause damage.
According to the American Pet Producers Association, around 10 million Americans had a backyard chicken farm in 2018, a number that is also trending upward.
Many flocks have already been hit by a recent wave of bird flu around the world, forcing many businesses and households to go into isolation to prevent the spread of the devastating virus.
As a result, many have also been told to limit interactions with their poultry to prevent bird-to-human transmission of the deadly virus.
While there has only been one recorded case of bird flu in humans, salmonella appears to have spread much more effectively.
The CDC warns that people who experience diarrhea, a fever of 102, dehydration or vomiting should seek medical attention for a possible salmonella infection.
Links between salmonella and chickens are well known. Many birds carry the bacteria, including poultry, which are eaten safely by humans.
The bacteria are killed at temperatures at which chicken is cooked, making it safe to eat.
The CDC recommends people wash their hands after handling their flock and monitor children to ensure they are safe around the animals (file photo).
People with backyard flocks interact with poultry in ways that many people don't — while the birds are still alive.
Many interact with them daily and even treat them like pets, just as someone would normally treat a dog or cat in their home.
"Do not kiss, cuddle, or eat or drink around backyard poultry. This can spread Salmonella germs to your mouth and make you sick," the CDC warns.
The agency also warns parents to be careful not to let children interact with backyard animals without washing their hands afterward.
Officials also recommend collecting eggs regularly to prevent them from becoming dirty and tossing eggs that are cracked.