Phone: (509) 826-0100
1-800-725-KOMW
Email: info@komw.net
With Easter coming this weekend, the Washington State Department of Health reminds parents that chicks and ducklings don't make good gifts for children! They are soft and cute, but can put kids at risk for serious illness.
Young poultry may have Salmonella bacteria on their bodies, even when they are healthy and look clean. The germs also get on cages and other things the birds touch. Salmonella bacteria on your hands can spread to other people, surfaces, or infect you – if you don't wash up.
Anyone can get a Salmonella infection, which can cause serious illness. Children are especially at risk of illness because they are less likely to wash their hands and have more frequent hand-to-mouth contact than adults.
Symptoms of Salmonella infection begin about one to three days after exposure and include diarrhea, fever, and stomach pain. Illness usually lasts four to seven days and most people will recover without medical treatment. However, in some people the symptoms may be so severe that medical treatment or a stay in the hospital is needed. Infants, children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to experience severe illness. Call your health care provider, if you or your child has a high fever, severe diarrhea, or other symptoms that concern you.