Last month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) posted a media alert about Salmonella infections in at least 38 states. The agency is actively investigating a multistate outbreak that is linked with contact with backyard poultry. In total, 219 illnesses were reported by mid-June. This number included 27 hospitalizations and 1 death. One in four sick people have been children younger than 5 and the likely total number of sick individuals is suspected to be much higher than what has been reported to the agency.

“Almost every year the CDC reports on Salmonella outbreaks associated with contact with backyard poultry,” said Jason Dobranic, Ph.D., Vice President of Microbiology and Life Sciences at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Last year, there were 1,135 infections from this type of contact, but the true number is likely much higher as many people recover without medical care and are never tested for Salmonella.”

Chickens, ducks and other poultry can all carry Salmonella, a type of bacteria that naturally lives in the intestines of many animals. Salmonella can be carried in the droppings and on the bodies of live poultry, so it is sometimes found on cages, coops, feed and water dishes, hay, plants and soil. The bacteria can also get on people's hands, shoes and clothing if they handle the birds or if children play where they live and roam.

To help prevent infections in agricultural workers and families that have backyard flocks, or to identify the source of an outbreak if one has already occurred, EMSL Analytical offers environmental testing for Salmonella and many other microbial pathogens. They provide all the sampling supplies needed and have even sponsored an educational video about backyard poultry and Salmonella exposure risks that can be seen at:  https://youtu.be/fQmOd_B_P68 

To learn more about Salmonella or other environmental and food testing services, please visit www.FoodTestingLab.com or www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email  info@EMSL.com .

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP 797, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOC's, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products, and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA-LAP, LLC (AIHA-LAP, LLC EMLAP, AIHA-LAP, LLC IHLAP, AIHA-LAP, LLC ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP, and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.

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