ODA: Don’t Let Chicks Get You Sick

Between the start of Spring, and Easter, it’s common to get baby chicks, ducks are other little animals this time of year.  But the Oregon Department of Agriculture is reminding you that, while cute, those tiny birds can harbor a host of germs.

ODA said its important to practice effective biosecurity measures when handling poultry.  Chicks, ducklings, or other young birds can carry salmonella on their bodies, even though they may appear to be clean and healthy.  Touching your eyes, mouth, or face directly after handling live birds, or things in their environment can lead to sickness.  After handling young birds, or poultry in general and anything in their environment, it is important to properly wash your hands with soap and water.

ODA added birds and their supplies should be kept outside to prevent harmful bacteria and viruses from spreading inside the home.  And its important, the Department noted, to supervise children when they are handling poultry and ensure they don’t kiss, nuzzle, touch their mouths, eat, or drink, during or after handling poultry until they have properly washed their hands.  

The CDC has additional health and safety tips.  Learn more by visiting the CDC’s Healthy Pets, Healthy People Backyard Poultry Website.

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