BUSINESS WIRE - 44 Montgomery St, 39th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94104; Tel: (415) 986-4422; FAX: (415) 788-5335 - Friday, 21 March 1997.
OLYMPIA, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 21, 1997--As spring approaches, health officials warn that diarrheal illness may be caused by contact with chicks and baby ducks. A report published today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that chicks or baby ducks may transmit Salmonella infection. The report was based, in part, on the work of epidemiologists at the state Department of Health.
"Though typically a food-borne illness, you can also get Salmonella if you don't wash your hands after handling some animals such as cattle, poultry and reptiles," said Dr. Marcia Goldoft, epidemiologist at Department of Health. "As the CDC report shows, farmyard or pet chicks and ducklings are also a risk, especially for children."
In 1995 and 1996, state epidemiologists investigated the source of illness for 20 people with Salmonella serotype Montevideo, one of more than 2,000 strains of the bacteria. They found that 14 of the 20 people became ill after handling chicks. Several young children who did not handle chicks directly, were probably infected by parents or siblings who had handled chicks.
Careful handwashing with soap and water after handling animals can reduce the chance of getting Salmonella infection. Infants, persons with weakened immune systems, the elderly, as well as those who care for them, should limit contact with potentially infectious animals and wash their hands carefully after exposure.
Those who think they have Salmonella infection should call a doctor or local health department.
Note to the Editors: For more information call Dr. Marcia Goldoft at 206/361-2914.
WASHINGTON STATE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
Salmonellosis fact sheet
What is salmonellosis?
Salmonellosis is a common bacterial infection caused by any of more than 2,000 strains of Salmonella. These bacteria infect the intestinal tract and occasionally the blood. In 1996, there were 733 salmonellosis cases in Washington.
How does a person get salmonellosis?
People are most often infected by eating or drinking contaminated food or water or by contact with infected people or animals. Salmonellosis is typically a food-borne illness acquired from contaminated raw poultry, eggs, and unpasteurized milk and cheese products. Other sources of exposure include contact with infected animals, especially turtles, iguanas, other reptiles, chicks, cattle and poultry.
Who gets salmonellosis?
Anyone who is exposed to Salmonella bacteria can get salmonellosis, but it is most commonly recognized in children, the elderly and people with a weakened immune system.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms can include severe diarrhea, fever, chills, abdominal discomfort, and occasionally vomiting. The symptoms generally appear one to three days after exposure. Serious bloodstream infections can occur, particularly in the very young or elderly.
When is an infected person contagious?
The infectious period can vary from several days to many months. Those who have been treated with oral antibiotics tend to carry the germ longer than others. Infected food handlers, health care workers, and individuals associated with daycare must obtain the approval of their local health department before returning to work or daycare.
What is the treatment for salmonellosis?
Most people recover on their own without medication. Antibiotics and antidiarrheal drugs are generally not recommended. Some people require intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration.
How can we prevent salmonellosis infection?
Wash your hands with soap and warm water before and after handling foods, after using the bathroom or changing a baby's diaper, and after contact with animals.
Make sure children, particularly those who handle pets, wash their hands properly.
Purchase only inspected eggs, animal food products and pasteurized milk.
Wrap fresh meats in plastic bags at the market to prevent blood from dripping on other foods.
Refrigerate foods promptly.
Defrost meats in the refrigerator; minimize holding at room temperature.
Wash cutting boards and counters used for preparation immediately after use to avoid cross contaminating other foods.
Avoid eating raw or undercooked meats and eggs, particularly when using a microwave oven.
Where can I get more information?
Call communicable disease epidemiology 206/361-2914 or the food program 360/586-1249.
DT 970321
Keywords: IMMUNE SYSTEM
DOCN BW970321
Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeard in $YEAR$. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
This information is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.