For Immediate Release:
March 18, 2008

Contact:
Mary Kay Hager
Office of Public Information
573-751-6062

Department Of Health And Senior Services Reminds Missourians That Chicks and Ducklings Given as Easter Pets Can Spread Harmful Bacteria

As the Easter season approaches, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) reminds Missourians that chicks and ducklings can carry Salmonella, a bacterium that can make people sick.In previous years, baby chicks and ducklings given as Easter presents have been linked to cases of salmonellosis, according to Dr. Howard Pue, State Public Health Veterinarian with DHSS.

Salmonella are microscopic bacteria that can be passed from the feces of animals or people to other animals or people. If the bacteria are ingested, an infection can occur.  Symptoms, which usually begin within 12 to 36 hours after exposure, include diarrhea, fever, nausea, abdominal cramps, vomiting and headache.  Illness usually lasts three to seven days and most people recover without treatment.  However, children, the elderly, and people who are already sick are the most vulnerable to salmonellosis and are more likely to experience severe illness requiring treatment or even hospitalization, according to Dr. Pue.

“While all this sounds serious, and it can be, it’s also very easy to prevent the spread of salmonellosis from these animals,” said Dr. Pue.  “Proper hand washing after handling pets is the key to preventing the spread of Salmonella bacteria from pets to people.  After handling the birds or cleaning up after them, hands should be thoroughly washed with soap and warm water. The animals should be kept away from food preparation areas and children’s play areas.  Also, animal feed and water bowls should not be cleaned or filled in food preparation areas or where small children are bathed.”

An information pamphlet explaining how Salmonella is spread and the importance of handwashing to prevent the spread of the disease is available from your local health department or the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. The pamphlet is also available at the DHSS website to download and print at http://www.dhss.mo.gov/TopicsA-Z/SalmonellaChickPoster.pdf.