Salmonella Outbreak in Wyoming
Written by Andrew-Rossi on June 7, 2017
The Wyoming Department of Health has identified a significant increase in salmonella cases so far this year linked to contact with baby poultry.
Six cases have been reported so far in 2017, involving live poultry and residents of Fremont, Natrona, Goshen, Laramie and Converse counties. That is as many in one year as was reported in the last three years combined, statewide. According to the Department of Health, the Wyoming cases are each connected to larger, multistate outbreaks identified by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Tiffany Lupcho, a Health Department epidemiologist, warns that baby chicks can carry harmful germs on their bodies and in their droppings even if they appear healthy and clean.
Salmonella is a bacteria found in animals, including baby poultry, that can cause diarrhea, fever, stomach cramps and other severe symptoms in humans. In order to reduce the risk of exposure to salmonella, officials recommend not letting live birds inside the house, especially in areas where food is prepared; don’t eat or drink around them or hold them closely to your face; wash hands thoroughly after touching baby chicks.
