Salmonella Strikes 6 States: Backyard Poultry Under Scrutiny 

United States: A silent infection has re-emerged in American backyards—a fresh salmonella flare-up now links at least seven individuals across six different states, according to a public bulletin released by federal health experts this Monday. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) disclosed that Missouri tallied two infections, while Florida, Illinois, South Dakota, Utah, and Wisconsin each reported one confirmed instance. All cases surfaced during the stretch of February to March this calendar year. 

Health authorities note a striking commonality—each patient bore the imprint of an identical salmonella strain, a microbial fingerprint previously linked to poultry hatcheries. Though the full picture remains developing, officials maintain an active probe into the pathogen’s precise origin, according to the Associated Press.  

Annually, salmonella is responsible for an estimated 1.35 million infections across the US, and its trail has led to diverse and sometimes surprising sources—ranging from common kitchen produce like cucumbers and basil to raw eggs, unpasteurized dairy, and even exotic pets such as geckos and bearded dragons. 

Yet one especially discreet source persists—domestic chickens and their feathered peers. Despite often appearing pristine and healthy, backyard fowl can harbor salmonella quietly, transmitting it without visible symptoms. A prior wave of infections tied to these seemingly benign birds led to 470 confirmed cases spanning 48 states, tragically culminating in one fatality, as outlined by the AP News.  

As investigations continue, experts caution those raising poultry at home: invisible dangers can dwell beneath clean feathers, making vigilance not just wise but vital.