Antibiotic-Resistant Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Backyard Poultry
More than two dozen people across 13 states have fallen ill with salmonella food poisoning, some with antibiotic-resistant strains, between February and March, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Over a roughly one-month period, 34 individuals were infected with salmonella, primarily after coming into contact with backyard poultry such as chickens, ducks, turkeys, or geese. Approximately 13 of those infected were hospitalized. While no deaths have been reported, the CDC is urging the public to wash hands thoroughly after handling poultry and eggs, handle eggs safely, keep backyard poultry at a safe distance, and supervise children closely.
A significant portion of those infected—41 percent—are children under five years old. Young children are more susceptible to salmonella and can suffer severe illness. The strain involved is particularly concerning because samples from patients show resistance to antibiotics such as fosfomycin, chloramphenicol, streptomycin, sulfisoxazole, and tetracycline. Antibiotic-resistant infections are harder to treat and may require second- or third-line treatments with serious side effects, increasing the risk of complications or death.
The exact source of the outbreak remains unknown. Of the 29 people interviewed, 23 reported contact with backyard poultry the week before becoming ill. Fourteen of those owned backyard poultry, almost all purchased or obtained since January 1. CDC investigators are collecting information on where the animals were obtained and which hatcheries supplied them.
Many infections have been reported in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Cases have also emerged in Florida, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Mississippi, New Hampshire, Tennessee, and West Virginia. However, the CDC notes that the true number of sick people is likely much higher than reported.
Salmonella is the leading cause of food poisoning-related hospitalizations and deaths in the United States, with an estimated 1.35 million cases annually, according to the Food and Drug Administration. Most people recover without medical intervention, but approximately 26,500 are hospitalized and 420 die each year from the infection.
