Nebraska is one of 20 states currently experiencing an outbreak of Salmonella infection linked to exposure to baby chicks and ducklings. Loup Basin Public Health Department wants to remind the public that children are most susceptible to infection because they have immature immune systems as well as frequent hand to mouth activity. Others at increased risk include persons with HIV/AIDS, pregnant women, the elderly and other immunocompromised persons.
Whether you raise chicks or ducklings as a source of food, keep them as pets or come into contact with them in a store, please follow these CDC recommendations to protect you, your family and friends from illness:
· Do not let children under age 5 or others at high risk handle poultry or items contaminated by poultry.
· Wash hands thoroughly after handling poultry, their droppings, or anything in the area where poultry live.
· Adults should supervise hand washing for children.
· Do not eat or drink around poultry or their living areas.
· Do not let poultry live inside your home.
· Do not wash the birds’ food or water dishes in the kitchen sink.
For more information visit, http://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/resources/salmonella-baby-poultry.pdf.
or contact Loup Basin Public Health Department at 1-866-522-5795 or see our website: www.loupbasinhealth.com.
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