Outbreak Scope and Scale
Public health officials in multiple states are investigating a multistate outbreak of salmonella linked to backyard poultry. As of late April 2026, 34 confirmed cases have been reported across 13 states, with 13 people hospitalized. The CDC notes that the true number of sick people is likely much higher because many people recover without medical care and are not tested for salmonella. No deaths have been reported.
Geographic Distribution
Cases have been reported in Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Mississippi, New Hampshire, Ohio, Tennessee, Wisconsin, and West Virginia. Michigan has reported the most cases with 6 confirmed infections, followed by Ohio and Wisconsin with 5 cases each.
How Infection Occurs
People can become infected by touching backyard poultry or anything in their environment, then touching their mouth or eating food without washing their hands. The CDC notes that infected flocks may appear healthy and clean but can still carry salmonella bacteria. Young children are at higher risk, and children 5 years and younger should not handle chicks, ducklings, or other backyard poultry.
Symptoms and Timeline
Most people infected with salmonella experience stomach cramps, fever, and diarrhea. Symptoms can begin 6 hours to 6 days after exposure. Most people recover within 4 to 7 days without treatment. However, people younger than 5, older than 65, and those with weakened immune systems may experience severe symptoms requiring hospitalization or medical treatment.
Prevention Measures
The CDC recommends washing hands with soap and clean water for 20 seconds after touching poultry, collecting eggs, or touching anything in their environment. Use dedicated shoes or boots in the coop and avoid bringing them inside. Keep bird supplies outside, supervise children closely, do not kiss or cuddle poultry, collect eggs often and discard cracked ones, and avoid eating or drinking around backyard poultry.
Severe Symptoms Warning
People should contact a healthcare provider immediately if they experience diarrhea lasting more than two days, fever higher than 102°F, bloody diarrhea, excessive vomiting with inability to keep liquids down, or signs of dehydration such as reduced urination, dry mouth and throat, or dizziness when standing. 
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