Salmonella is a bacterium responsible for human infections. There are two species, which in turn are divided into subgroups.
Knowledge of these groups is important in the case of epidemics in order to identify the source of infection and also to study the antibiotic resistance that these bacteria can display.
Salmonella gastroenteritis is a worldwide public health problem, and its actual incidence is much higher than the number of reported cases. In the United States, it is estimated that there are 1.4 million cases a year, with only 10% being reported.
According to Fast Company, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) launched investigations on Thursday into salmonella outbreaks spanning several states, all related to interactions with backyard poultry.
To prevent contagion, the magazine gives some simple advice, both for the owners of these birds and their sellers, which can help prevent these outbreaks.
The tips range from washing hands immediately after contact with poultry, their eggs or anything in the area where they live; not eating or drinking near them and supervising children when they are near them.
According to the agency, 109 people in 29 states have contracted the disease following contact with backyard poultry, including chickens and ducks.
In 2022, contact with poultry resulted in the illness of at least 1,230 individuals in the United States. In another salmonella outbreak in October, which affected 49 states, 1,072 infections and 247 hospitalizations were reported.
Salmonella can cause diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps.
Most people recover within a few days, but children under 5, adults over 65 and people with weakened immune systems can have more serious complications that require medical treatment or even hospitalization.
