The CDC said the outbreak has led to 53 hospitalizations, including 40 in the latest update, and one death in Washington state. More than a quarter of those affected are children younger than 5.
Health officials are monitoring three related multistate outbreaks linked to contact with backyard poultry, such as chickens and ducks. The CDC said the largest outbreak involves an unusually high number of people reporting exposure to ducks.
The agency said outbreak strains have been traced to five hatcheries. Officials are working with state agencies to notify hatcheries and educate poultry owners on reducing infection risks.
“Public health officials in several states are investigating a multi-state outbreak of Salmonella illnesses linked to contact with backyard poultry,” the CDC said in an earlier investigation notice.
Just weeks ago, the CDC reported at least 34 illnesses across 13 states, with cases identified between late February and March 2026. Officials had said the outbreak likely affected more states than reported, as many people also recover without testing or medical care.
At that time, 29 people were interviewed, and 79 percent reported contact with backyard poultry in the week before falling ill.
Salmonella infection can occur after touching birds, eggs, or contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth or food, the CDC said. Symptoms usually include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, beginning six hours to six days after exposure. Illness typically lasts four to seven days.
Children younger than 5, adults 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of severe illness or hospitalization.
"Children younger than 5 years old shouldn't handle the birds (including chicks and ducklings) or anything in the area where the birds live and roam. They are more likely to get very sick from Salmonella," the CDC says.
Public health officials urge poultry owners and suppliers to follow prevention steps, including washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after handling birds or equipment, keeping poultry supplies outside living spaces, and preventing young children from handling chicks or ducklings.
The CDC also recommends businesses source poultry from hatcheries that reduce Salmonella contamination, sanitize display areas between shipments, and provide handwashing stations near poultry sales areas.
“Always wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds after touching birds,” the CDC said in its guidance. It also advises keeping birds and supplies outside the home and avoiding close contact, such as kissing or snuggling poultry.