An outbreak of antibiotic-resistant Salmonella bacteria linked to backyard poultry has sickened 513 people and led to 134 hospitalizations across 42 states and Puerto Rico, according to the latest update from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). One death has been reported in connection with the outbreak, which began on January 20, 2026.

The CDC is investigating multiple strains of Salmonella, including Saintpaul, Enteritidis, Indiana, Infantis, and Mbandaka. Data and contact tracing indicate that contact with backyard poultry is the source of the illnesses. Among those interviewed, 306 reported contact with backyard poultry. A significant cluster of cases reported contact with ducks and ducklings.

Salmonella Symptoms and Risks

Salmonella infections typically cause diarrhea and stomach cramps, with symptoms appearing between six hours and six days after infection. Most individuals recover within four to seven days without specific treatment. However, for at-risk populations, including children under five and adults over 50, the bacteria can spread to the bloodstream, potentially leading to sepsis, a life-threatening complication.

Doctors treat Salmonella infections with antibiotics, but the increasing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant strains severely limits treatment options and heightens the risk of serious outcomes. Sequencing of bacteria samples from human, animal, and environmental sources predicts that some strains involved in this outbreak are resistant to common antibiotics like fosfomycin. Additionally, hundreds of samples were found to be resistant to other widely used antibiotics.

Outbreak Details and Poultry Sources

Illnesses in this outbreak have been reported from January 20, 2026, to May 22, 2026. Michigan has reported the highest number of cases with 57, followed by Kentucky (55), Ohio (48), Wisconsin (31), and Washington state (24). The reported death occurred in a person from Washington state. The ages of those affected range from less than one year old to 99 years old.

Of the 157 patients with Salmonella Saintpaul who reported poultry contact, 127 indicated contact with chicks or chickens, and 79 reported contact with ducklings or ducks. Pekin ducks were specifically identified by 27 patients who reported duck contact. Approximately 165 individuals who owned backyard poultry purchased their birds since January 1 from various sources, primarily agricultural retail stores.

Investigators collected samples from backyard poultry and their enclosures in Idaho, Minnesota, and Ohio. These samples revealed Salmonella strains—Enteritidis, Mbandaka, and Saintpaul—that matched the strains found in sick individuals. The outbreak strains have been linked to at least seven hatcheries, and the CDC is working to identify further connections to upstream suppliers.

Prevention Guidelines

Health officials emphasize that backyard poultry, such as chickens and ducks, can carry Salmonella germs even if they appear healthy and clean. These germs can easily spread to their surroundings. To prevent infection, people are urged to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after touching poultry, their eggs, or anything in their living areas. It is also advised not to kiss poultry, avoid eating or drinking in their presence, and ensure children are supervised around birds, with handwashing afterward.

Individuals who suspect they may have been sickened by this outbreak are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider.