Outbreaks of Human Salmonella Infections Associated with Live Poultry, United States, 1990–2014

• Main Authors: Colin Basler, Thai-An Nguyen, Tara C. Anderson, Thane Hancock, Casey Barton Behravesh
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2016-10-01
• Series: Emerging Infectious Diseases
• Subjects: zoonoses; poultry; animal Salmonella infection; salmonellosis; bacteria; outbreak
• Online Access: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/22/10/15-0765_article

Backyard poultry flocks have increased in popularity concurrent with an increase in live poultry–associated salmonellosis (LPAS) outbreaks. Better understanding of practices that contribute to this emerging public health issue is needed. We reviewed outbreak reports to describe the epidemiology of LPAS outbreaks in the United States, examine changes in trends, and inform prevention campaigns. LPAS outbreaks were defined as ≥2 culture-confirmed human Salmonella infections linked to live poultry contact. Outbreak data were obtained through multiple databases and a literature review. During 1990–2014, a total of 53 LPAS outbreaks were documented, involving 2,630 illnesses, 387 hospitalizations, and 5 deaths. Median patient age was 9 years (range <1 to 92 years). Chick and duckling exposure were reported by 85% and 38% of case-patients, respectively. High-risk practices included keeping poultry inside households (46% of case-patients) and kissing birds (13%). Comprehensive One Health strategies are needed to prevent illnesses associated with live poultry.