You probably already knew that birds like chickens can bear Salmonella bacteria, that’s why we cook chicken and try not to eat to lots of raw cookie dough (well, that and the dangers of raw flour). But the CDC is now warning that there is an outbreak related to songbirds, and you should be careful if you have a birdbath or bird feeder in your garden.
The outbreak has sickened 19 in eight people states, with fortunately no deaths. Salmonella symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, and can start anywhere between six o’clock and six days after swallowing the bacteria. (This could mean eating contaminated food or touching your mouth with contaminated hands.) People under five years old, over 65, or have weakened immune systems are at risk of developing more serious or even life-threatening symptoms.
What you can do
The CDC recommends not touching or hand feeding birds with your bare hands, and washing your hands after touching or handling birds (including dead ones) feeder or bird bath.
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Pets can also be affected so they also recommend keeping pets away from birdbaths and birds feeders, including the area below. You should also wash your hands after handling pet food, bowls, and toys or after picking up their poo, even if you used a bag for it.
Bird feeders and birdbaths should be cleaned weekly, the CDC says. This helps animals and humans to stay healthy. But don’t clean them in your sink; do the chore outdoors if possible. Wash the food bowl with warm, soapy water and then soak for a nine-to-one bleach solution (nine parts water to one partial bleach) for 10 minutes. Let it dry before refilling and wash your own hands afterward.
If you find a dead or sick bird
If you find a sick bird, call local wildlife rehabilitatorIf you find a dead bird, ask your national wildlife agency or wildlife committee if they want you to report it. (Some agencies will test dead birds if they are concerned about an outbreak in the area.) Find out more about what you can do on it here CDC’s page on the outbreak