I am a self-professed chicken fan. I come by it through genetic disposition, as the picture of my father at a young age depicts. I find them fascinating in all their variations, their history, and the diverse products that they yield. I know that many share my sentiments, but there is a real risk in getting too close to our flocks and that is salmonella.
I would prefer a Canadian example, but I found the U.S. Center for Disease Control information timely, compelling and applicable. A recent salmonella outbreak linked to backyard poultry has prompted their warning: "Don't kiss or snuggle your ducks and chickens."
There have been 163 illnesses and 34 hospitalizations reported across 43 states in the US, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention said last week. North Carolina had the most reported cases, with 13, followed by Iowa, with 11. About a third of the cases were in children under 5, the agency said.
The true number of sick people is most likely higher as many recover without medical attention and are not tested for salmonella, the CDC said. The likely source of the outbreak is contact with backyard poultry. The poultry can pick up salmonella from contaminated food, or the bacteria can live naturally in their intestines. According to the CDC, "some can even pick up the bacteria from their mothers before they are born.”
There is a safe and satisfactory solution. Here is some advice from Ontario Public Health to reduce the risk of salmonella transmission from poultry:
- Wash hands for 20 seconds after handling birds, eggs, meat, or associated equipment
- Wear dedicated shoes, gloves, and clothes for cleaning coup and pen
- Prepare housing for the flock that is easy to clean, secure from predators and other animals, with adequate space, and ventilation
- Remove manure regularly
- Ensure regular change of bedding and feed to reduce bacterial growth and flies
- Seek veterinary help in case of illness
- Report clusters of bird deaths
- Store poultry feed in rodent-proof containers
- Do not bringing poultry inside the house
- Ensure proper composting of poultry manure prior to use as a fertilizer
- Ensure prompt and proper disposal of dead birds
- Ensure home slaughtering of poultry conducted outside, or in well ventilated out-buildings using humane and food safety practices
- Clean and sanitize equipment regularly
- Do not touch your face, eat or drink in the proximity of poultry