Drug-Resistant Salmonella Tied to Backyard Flocks: CDC Warns of Multistate Outbreak

Outbreak Overview

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued an alert regarding a growing outbreak of Salmonella infections across 13 states. The strain involved, Salmonella Saintpaul, has shown resistance to a key antibiotic, raising concerns among public health officials. As of late April, 34 confirmed cases have been reported, with the majority linked to contact with backyard poultry—ducks and chickens raised by hobbyists or small-scale farmers.

Source and Spread of Infection

Backyard Poultry Implicated

The CDC’s investigation points directly to backyard flocks as the primary reservoir. Nearly 80% of infected individuals reported handling or being near chickens or ducks before falling ill. Subsequent testing of poultry from affected properties confirmed the presence of the same Salmonella strain found in human patients. The outbreak likely began on February 26, when the first known case was recorded.

Antibiotic Resistance Detected

Whole-genome sequencing of bacterial samples from all confirmed cases revealed resistance to fosfomycin, an antibiotic commonly used to treat Salmonella infections. Additionally, samples from eight individuals showed resistance to other antibiotics, including chloramphenicol, streptomycin, sulfisoxazole, and tetracycline. This pattern of multidrug resistance underscores the importance of preventing infection rather than relying on treatment.

CDC Investigation and Case Numbers

Confirmed Cases and Hospitalizations

The CDC’s April 23 update confirmed 34 infections, of which 13 (38%) required hospitalization. No deaths have been reported to date. However, the agency cautions that the true number of cases is likely higher. Delays in reporting—it takes three to four weeks to link a case to the outbreak—and the fact that many people recover without seeking medical care mean the outbreak may be more widespread than current data suggest.

Where Cases Are Concentrated

A CDC map shows that the outbreak is centered in the Midwest. The states with the highest counts are Michigan (6 cases), Ohio (5), and Wisconsin (5). The full geographic distribution is as follows:

• Florida: 1
• Illinois: 1
• Indiana: 3
• Kentucky: 3
• Maine: 3
• Maryland: 2
• Michigan: 6
• Mississippi: 1
• New Hampshire: 1
• Ohio: 5
• Tennessee: 1
• West Virginia: 2
• Wisconsin: 5

The remaining states—including Illinois, Tennessee, and Florida—have reported isolated cases, suggesting the risk extends beyond the core region.

Recognizing Salmonella Symptoms

Most people infected with Salmonella develop symptoms within six hours to six days after exposure. According to the CDC, common signs include:

• Watery diarrhea that may be bloody
• Abdominal cramps and pain
• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting

Symptoms typically last four to seven days, and most people recover without treatment. However, young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe illness requiring hospitalization.

Protecting Yourself and Your Flock

The CDC recommends simple hygiene measures to reduce the risk of Salmonella transmission from backyard poultry:

1. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching chickens, ducks, or their environment—including coops, feeders, and water containers.
2. Keep poultry outdoors. Do not allow birds inside the house, especially in areas where food is prepared or consumed.
3. Supervise children. Young children are more likely to put hands or objects in their mouths after handling birds. They should be closely monitored.
4. Use dedicated footwear. Wear shoes or boots only when visiting the coop and clean them before entering the home.
5. Clean coops regularly. Remove manure and soiled bedding, and disinfect surfaces with a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water).

For more detailed guidance, visit the CDC’s backyard poultry page.

Staying Informed

As the investigation continues, the CDC will update case counts and recommendations. Anyone who develops symptoms after contact with poultry should contact a healthcare provider and mention that exposure. With the right precautions, the joy of raising backyard chickens can be enjoyed without the risk of drug-resistant Salmonella.