Salmonella infections with Children and Infants - March 29, 2010

With the Easter season soon upon us the Center for Disease Control  and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning regarding the potential of children and infants contracting salmonella from handling of baby chicks and ducks, sometimes given as gifts or put on display during this time of year. Salmonellosis, the disease caused by Salmonella, is the second most common foodborne bacterial illness after Campylobacter infection. Estimates are that it affects 1.4 million people annually in the United States, 95% of which are related to foodborne bacteria. About 22% of the cases result in hospitalization and 8 out of every 1000 cases result in death. About 500 to 1,000 deaths are caused by salmonella each year.

Although Salmonella is most frequently foodborne, the bacteria can also be spread by baby chickens and ducklings as well. Harmful bacteria in the intestines of what is otherwise a cute and cuddly animal can contaminate the entire surface of the animal. Children and infants are exposed when they hold, cuddle or kiss the baby birds. Children are generally more likely to be infected because of their tendency to o put their fingers in their mouths and because their immune systems are not entirely developed.

Most people with salmonella will have diarrhea, fever and stomach pain that begins one to three days after ingesting the bacteria. Other symptoms could be nausea, chills, headache or a general achy feeling. If the infection is severe, you should immediately see a doctor.

The CDC recommends the following:

a. Do NOT purchase live animals as Easter gifts. Give toy stuffed animals instead.
b. Do not let children under 5 years of age handle baby chicks or other young birds. Keep them from coming into contact with packages in which chicks or ducklings arrive.
c. If anyone touches the chicks or ducklings or their environment, make sure that they wash their hands immediately afterwards. Pacifiers, toys, bottles or other objects should not touch the baby birds or their enclosures. If these objects do become contaminated, wash them with warm soapy water.
d. Do not allow anyone to eat or drink while interacting with birds or their environment. Keep the bird area separate from areas where food and drink are prepared or consumed. Do not allow chicks or ducklings on table surfaces or places where food will be prepared or eaten.
e. Talk to your veterinarian, nurse or doctor about possible risk factors.