Salmonellosis associated with chicks and ducklings--Michigan and Missouri, Spring 1999

During the spring of 1999, outbreaks of salmonellosis associated with handling chicks and ducklings occurred in Michigan and Missouri. This report summarizes the epidemiologic information for the outbreaks and provides an overview of legislative efforts to control the distribution of chicks and ducklings. These outbreaks demonstrate that handling chicks and ducklings is a health risk, especially for children, and highlight the need for thorough handwashing after contact with chicks, ducklings, and other young fowl.