The US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has issued a warning against outbreaks of drug-resistant Salmonella in several US states.
As of late April, about 34 people have been infected in several states, including Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Maine, Florida, with about half of the cases involving children 5 or younger. About 13 people have been admitted to the hospital.
While ages range from infants to people as old as 78, the average age is 12, according to the CDC. Children under 5 and adults over 65 are at greatest risk of severe illness and dehydration.
The CDC notes that the actual number of sick individuals is likely much higher, as many people recover without formal medical care or testing.
“The actual number of people sickened in the outbreak is likely to be much higher than reported,” the agency said.
The CDC linked a multi-state outbreak of Salmonella St.Paul to backyard poultry such as chickens and ducks.
This particular strain is of extreme concern because of its resistance to fosfomycin, an antibiotic used to treat tough infections.
Talking about its transmission, its infection occurs through direct contact with birds or by touching contaminated objects in their environment. It can also be complicated by touching the mouth or food with dirty hands. Common symptoms include diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fever.
To avoid infection, the CDC advises not to touch a bird because Salmonella germs can live on any surface in the bird’s environment and to always monitor your hands after handling backyard poultry.
