The Washington Department of Health is working with local and federal partners to investigate 11 identified cases of salmonella across the state, DOH announced Friday.
The 11 cases are linked to backyard poultry in Pierce, Kitsap, Snohomish, Lincoln, King, Yakima and Lewis counties.
In Washington, two people have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported.
The people who became sick range in age from less than a year to 64 years old. Three of them are younger than 5.
All patients who were able to be interviewed reported recently buying young poultry, like chicks or ducklings.
According to a news release, the cases are part of a nationwide outbreak that has sickened 219 people in 38 states.
“If you have a backyard flock, please take proper precautions. Always wash your hands thoroughly after you’ve touched live poultry or anything in their environment,” said Washington State Chief Science Officer Tao Sheng Kwan-Gett.
Backyard poultry can carry salmonella germs even if they look healthy and clean, according to the DOH. The germs are spread by touching backyard poultry or anything in the areas where they live and roam, and then touching your mouth or food with unwashed hands.
People usually become sick from salmonella in one to three days. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, chills, stomach cramps and occasional vomiting.
Most infected people recover without treatment after four to seven days, but some may experience more severe illness that requires medical attention.
©2022 Cox Media Group
