At least 34 people in 13 states have been sickened with salmonella poisoning linked to contact with backyard poultry, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officials reported. The CDC has investigated multiple previous outbreaks involving backyard poultry.
Outbreak Overview
Illnesses were reported from February 26 to March 31, 2025. A total of 13 people have been hospitalized, with patient ages ranging from 1 to 78. Notably, over 40% of cases are in children under 5.
States with confirmed cases include: Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Mississippi, New Hampshire, Ohio, Tennessee, Wisconsin, and West Virginia.
Key Findings
Nearly 80% of ill people reported contact with backyard poultry. Of those who owned poultry, over 90% obtained the animals since January from various sources, including agricultural retail stores.
Bacteria from 34 people showed potential resistance to at least one drug used to treat salmonella. Some samples indicated resistance to up to four other common antibiotics.
Prior Context
In 2025, a separate prior outbreak sickened over 500 people across 48 states, resulting in 125 hospitalizations and two deaths.
Prevention Guidelines
Wash hands after handling poultry, their food, or environment.
Avoid kissing or snuggling with backyard birds.
Young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk of severe illness and should take extra precautions.