Health officials are currently monitoring a developing public health situation as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating a multi-state salmonella outbreak linked to backyard poultry. The investigation focuses on the Salmonella Saintpaul strain, which has been identified in individuals across more than a dozen states, prompting warnings for those who keep birds at home.
In an update released on April 23, 2026, the CDC confirmed that 34 people across 13 states have fallen ill due to the infection Salmonella. While these figures provide a baseline for the current outbreak, the agency cautioned that the actual number of infections is likely significantly higher than reported, noting that the outbreak may extend beyond the states where illnesses have already been officially documented.
The disparity in reporting often occurs because many individuals recover with standard medical care without undergoing specific testing for salmonella. The agency noted a reporting lag, as it typically requires three to four weeks to definitively determine if a specific case is linked to a larger outbreak.
Timeline and Impact of the Outbreak
According to the CDC, the reported illnesses occurred between February 26 and March 31, 2026. While no deaths have been reported to date, the severity of the infections has been notable; 13 people were hospitalized out of the 27 cases for whom complete medical information was available CDC.
The link to backyard poultry was established through a combination of laboratory data, traceback efforts, and epidemiologic interviews. Of the 29 individuals interviewed by the agency, 23 reported direct contact with backyard poultry. This strong correlation suggests that the animals themselves, or their environments, are the primary vector for the Salmonella Saintpaul strain in this instance.
The investigation has also highlighted a potential link to the acquisition of recent animals. Among 14 people who reported owning backyard poultry, 13 stated they had purchased or obtained their birds since January 1, 2026. The CDC noted that these animals were sourced from various locations, including agricultural retail stores. Investigators are currently working to identify the specific hatcheries that supplied the retail stores where the ill individuals purchased their poultry.
The Risks of Salmonella Saintpaul and Antibiotic Resistance
The specific strain involved, Salmonella Saintpaul, is a known global health concern. According to a 2025 report published by the National Library of Medicine, this serovar is one of the top ten most frequently detected strains in both humans and animals worldwide, accounting for approximately 1.6 percent of severe salmonella infections National Library of Medicine.
Historically, Salmonella Saintpaul has been associated with significant foodborne outbreaks. Between 2008 and 2013, outbreaks were linked to alfalfa sprouts, peppers, and cucumbers primarily sourced from Mexico. The 2008 event was particularly severe, sickening 1,442 people across 43 states and the District of Columbia, resulting in 286 hospitalizations and two deaths.
A concerning aspect of the current outbreak is the emergence of drug-resistant bacteria. Laboratory analysis of the 34 case samples revealed that eight samples were resistant to several key antibiotics, including tetracycline, sulfisoxazole, streptomycin, and chloramphenicol. Antibiotic resistance complicates treatment and increases the risk of prolonged illness, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Health officials warn that symptoms of salmonella infection typically manifest between six hours and three days after exposure. Common indicators include:
- Fever and abdominal cramps
- Diarrhea, which may occasionally be bloody
- Nausea, vomiting, and chills
- Headaches
Safety Guidelines for Backyard Poultry Owners
As the CDC continues to investigate the source of the outbreak, the agency has issued critical hygiene guidance for anyone keeping birds at home. Because salmonella can live in the intestinal tracts of animals and be shed in feces, contact with the birds or their environment can lead to infection.
Essential Hygiene Practices:
- Handwashing: Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling poultry, their eggs, or any equipment and surfaces in the areas where the birds live or roam.
- Avoid Close Contact: The CDC advises against kissing or snuggling with backyard poultry.
- Food Safety: Do not eat or drink in areas where poultry are kept.
Particular caution is urged regarding children. Because their immune systems are still developing, children under the age of 5 are advised not to handle chicks, ducks, chickens, or other poultry, and should avoid spending time in areas where these animals reside. For older children, strict supervision is required, and handwashing must be enforced immediately after any interaction with the animals.
Key Takeaways for Poultry Keepers
| Risk Factor | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| Handling Birds/Eggs | Immediate soap and water handwashing |
| Animal Interaction | No kissing or snuggling with poultry |
| Environmental Safety | No eating or drinking in poultry areas |
| Young Children (<5) | Complete avoidance of handling poultry |
The investigation remains active as federal health officials continue to collect data on hatcheries and retail supply chains. The CDC has not yet named specific retail stores or hatcheries, as the traceback process is ongoing.
The next phase of the investigation will likely involve further laboratory testing of poultry samples from suspected hatcheries to confirm the source of the Salmonella Saintpaul strain. Official updates will be provided as more traceback data becomes available.
Do you keep backyard poultry? Share your experiences with poultry safety or ask questions in the comments below to help others in the community stay informed.