Full Breakdown
Multi-State Drug-Resistant Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Backyard Poultry
5/2/2026, 2:14:42 AM
Outbreak Overview
In late February 2026, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed a multi-state outbreak of Salmonella Saintpaul that has sickened 34 individuals in 13 states, with 13 requiring hospitalization. The infections are tied to backyard poultry—including chickens, ducks, geese, guinea fowl and turkeys—kept for eggs or meat. Laboratory testing indicates the strain may be resistant to the antibiotic fosfomycin and, in some cases, to additional commonly used drugs.
Background
Backyard poultry have repeatedly been linked to salmonella. A 2025 outbreak affected over 500 people in 48 states, prompting heightened CDC surveillance that now informs the 2026 response.
Timeline
Illnesses were reported Feb 26 – Mar 31, 2026. CDC released its first advisory April 23 and updated case counts on April 29.
Data and Statistics
The 34 cases span 13 states, with the highest counts in Michigan (6), Ohio (5) and Wisconsin (5). Ages range from under 1 year to 78 years; median 12, and about 40 % are under five. Thirteen patients, mainly children, were hospitalized. Testing shows possible fosfomycin resistance and, in eight samples, resistance to other common antibiotics.
Public Health Impact
The outbreak highlights the danger of antibiotic-resistant salmonella and the heightened risk to children under five, seniors and immunocompromised people, emphasizing strict hygiene for poultry owners.
Official Statements & Responses
CDC advises washing hands with soap for at least 20 seconds after any contact with poultry, eggs or coop items, using dedicated footwear, and avoiding kissing or snuggling birds. The agency notes possible fosfomycin resistance.
On-the-Ground Reports
Abilene-Taylor County health officials warned that live birds can spread salmonella via feathers, coops, feed, water, clothing and shoes, urging hand washing and keeping children away.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
CDC notes the 34 confirmed cases likely undercount the true spread, and investigators have not pinpointed a single source for the birds, which were obtained from various retail outlets since January.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The true number of sick people in an outbreak is likely much higher than the number reported,” the agency said. — CDC, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- “anything in their environment and then touching your mouth or food with unwashed hands and swallowing Salmonella germs.” — CDC, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- “Children younger than 5 should not handle the birds or their materials, as they are more likely to fall ill from salmonella, the CDC adds.” — CDC, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- “Samples from eight of those patients showed there could be resistance to other antibiotics commonly used in salmonella infections.” — CDC, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
What’s Next
CDC and state health departments will continue testing poultry samples, monitor for additional cases, and issue updated guidance as needed. Public-health campaigns on hand hygiene and safe poultry handling are slated for the summer.
