Just to be clear, I don't always follow the CDC's guidance. If you've been paying attention at all in the last two years, I'm sure you don't either. But this is some advice we should definitely all get on board with. And if you don't agree with that, well,
The CDC has found a link between the recent increase in salmonella outbreaks and backyard poultry. Because of this, they are asking bird owners to refrain from kissing and snuggling their ducks and chickens to prevent further outbreaks. A small price to pay to avoid salmonella.
Salmonella is spread through fecal-oral contact, so it's always wise to avoid putting your mouth on something that's been walking around and pecking at its own waste. I feel like this should be a no-brainer, but apparently some of y'all have bird brains.
Fox News reports:
As of June 9, 2022, the CDC found there have been 219 salmonella cases in 38 states, which have been linked to backyard poultry.
Salmonella germs can be on anything in the bird's environment, so even if you aren't getting cozy with your birds, you could still be picking up their poop germs. That said, please, please wash your hands after being anywhere where fecal matter could be present. That's just a good rule of thumb, regardless of whether or not you're an amateur farmer.
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