SANTA FE, N.M. (KRQE) — If you’re thinking of getting your kid a baby chick or duckling for Easter, you may want to think twice. New Mexico health officials say they pose a significant health risk through the spread of salmonella.
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According to the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH), 100 to 130 salmonella cases are reported in New Mexico children every year. Children handling, snuggling, or keeping chicks/ducklings in the home face an increased risk of exposure to the bacteria.
“Even healthy-looking birds can shed Salmonella, which can cause serious infection,” said NMDOH Epidemiologist Sarah Shrum Davis. “To prevent infection, children under 5 should not handle poultry. Make sure older children wash their hands after handling birds or their eggs. And do not kiss or snuggle live poultry.”
Symptoms of salmonella include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. Overall, the bacteria is responsible for 1.35 million infections each year in the US. To keep that infection at bay, health officials recommend the following:
- “ Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching live baby poultry or anything in the area where they live and roam.
- Do not let live baby poultry inside the house or in areas where food or drink is prepared, served or stored, such as kitchens and pantries.
- Consult your doctor if you or your children experience abdominal pain, fever and/or diarrhea “
Outside of salmonella, there are other factors to keep in mind when gifting baby animals for Easter. The Oregon Veterinary Association says pet chicks or ducks are more responsibility than buyers may expect. As they grow, more food is needed and more space is required for them to roam about. Those expenses can add up, leading the birds to sometimes be abandoned once they reach adult age. The same often applies to bunnies as well…