CDC: Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Backyard Poultry; Older Adults in Rural Areas Urged to Take Precautions

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is warning Americans—especially older adults in rural communities—about a growing Salmonella outbreak tied to backyard poultry flocks.

As of late April 2025, seven cases of Salmonella Mbandaka have been confirmed across six states: Florida, Illinois, Missouri, South Dakota, Utah, and Wisconsin. All individuals were infected with the same strain of Salmonella, which the CDC says is commonly associated with handling backyard poultry.

Backyard poultry refers to chickens, ducks, or other domesticated birds raised at home—often in a yard or garden—for eggs, meat, or companionship.

These birds are especially popular in rural areas and among those seeking self-sufficiency. But health officials say even healthy-looking birds can carry dangerous bacteria.

“Backyard poultry can carry Salmonella bacteria even if they appear healthy and clean,” the CDC said in a public health alert.

People can get sick from touching backyard poultry or anything in the areas where they live and roam.

Health Impact of Salmonella

Salmonella can cause serious illness in anyone, but the CDC highlights that older adults—especially those over 65—face a greater risk of severe complications such as dehydration or hospitalization. That’s due to natural changes in immune response that come with aging.

Common symptoms of Salmonella include:

• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Stomach cramps
• Vomiting

Symptoms typically begin six hours to six days after infection and can last up to a week. Severe cases may require hospitalization.

Long-Term Care Risk

Salmonella infection can potentially increase the risk of needing long-term care in older adults, especially if complications occur.

While many healthy people recover from Salmonella within a few days, older adults are more vulnerable to severe illness due to a naturally weakened immune system and potential underlying health conditions. In some cases, Salmonella can lead to:

• Severe dehydration, requiring hospitalization and follow-up care.
• Sepsis (a life-threatening infection that spreads through the bloodstream).
• Reactive arthritis, a long-term joint condition that can develop after infection.
• Worsening of pre-existing conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease.

If an older adult suffers a serious case of Salmonella and experiences a significant decline in mobility, strength, or cognitive function, it may trigger the need for extended rehabilitation or long-term custodial care, especially if independence cannot be regained.

This type of long-term care is not covered by Medicare or health insurance. If you or a loved one has Long-Term Care Insurance, the cost of extended care would be covered.

Infections like Salmonella are often underestimated as a cause of long-term functional decline in seniors. That’s why prevention, early diagnosis, and prompt treatment are key.

The CDC urges backyard flock owners, particularly seniors, to take extra precautions:

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching birds, eggs, or their environment.
• Avoid snuggling, kissing, or eating near live poultry.
• Keep poultry and supplies (like feed and bedding) outside the home.
• Use dedicated shoes and clothes when tending to birds.
• Cook all poultry products to a safe internal temperature.

In rural areas where backyard poultry is more common, public health officials recommend older adults seek medical attention if they develop symptoms of Salmonella, especially if they already have chronic health conditions.

Adult Children Should Check In

Adult children who know their aging parents keep backyard poultry should take this warning seriously. If your parent lives in a rural area and raises chickens or ducks, talk to them about the risks—especially if they’ve had recent illnesses or hospital visits.

Many older adults may not realize that simple contact with their flock could put their health in jeopardy.

Older adults might not connect mild symptoms like stomach upset or fatigue to Salmonella. That’s why it’s important for family members to help them recognize the risks and follow safety protocols.

Encouraging parents to wash their hands, avoid bringing poultry indoors, and seek medical care at the first sign of symptoms can make a significant difference. If your parent has limited mobility or lives alone, consider helping them clean coops or prepare feed while wearing gloves and practicing good hygiene.

The CDC notes that many cases likely go unreported because people recover without testing. The agency continues to investigate the source of the outbreak.