SANTA FE — Health officials are urging families to be cautious about giving chicks or ducklings as Easter gifts, citing an increased risk of salmonella infections, particularly among young children.
The New Mexico Department of Health reports between 100 and 130 cases of salmonella each year statewide. The illness is commonly linked to contact with live poultry, including chicks and ducklings, which can carry and spread the bacteria even when they appear healthy.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates salmonella causes about 1.35 million infections across the United States annually. Symptoms often include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. In more severe cases, infections can require hospitalization.
“Many birds shed Salmonella, meaning they release Salmonella bacteria in their feces even when they appear healthy,” said Sarah Shrum Davis, an epidemiologist with the New Mexico Department of Health’s Infectious Disease Epidemiology Bureau. “Children under five are at highest risk of serious infection.”
Health officials say infections can occur after handling poultry or touching surfaces contaminated by the bacteria. Young children are more likely to put their hands in their mouths after contact with animals.
Doctors advise anyone experiencing prolonged symptoms after contact with live poultry to seek medical care.
