6 people in Washington sickened in salmonella outbreak linked to songbirds

[Yamo Picksom]

SEATTLE — At least six people in Washington state are among more
than a dozen people who have become sick due to a salmonella
outbreak linked to wild songbirds.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says eight
people have been hospitalized out of 19 reported illnesses in
eight states, including Oregon and California.

People who have become sick age in range from 2 months to 89
years old.

The CDC says that songbirds such as pine siskins can be found
throughout the United States, so the outbreak may not be limited
to the eight states. The true number of people is likely "much
higher" because many people recover without medical care,
according to the CDC.

In addition, recent illnesses may not be reported yet, as it
takes up to four weeks to determine if a sick person is part of
an outbreak.

Of the 13 sick people interviewed so far, nine of them reported
owning a bird feeder and two people said they were in contact
with a sick or dead bird. Ten people have pets that could have
come in contact with wild birds.

The other states where illnesses have been reported are:
Kentucky, Mississippi, Oklahoma and Tennessee.

Earlier this year, the Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife (WDFW) asked people to remove bird baths and bird
feeders to help reduce the spread of salmonellosis, a fatal bird
disease. Not only was that to help reduce disease among birds,
but also reduce the risk of transmission of salmonella to people.

Wildlife officials said bird feeders could be restored, but
urged people to use caution. Officials recommend using the tube-
style feeders with individual perches which will further
disperse the birds. This guidance will also help reduce
outbreaks going forward, WDFW said.

The CDC recommends people clean and disinfect bird feeders and
bird baths on a weekly basis, or when they are visibly dirty.
People should also not touch feeders with bare hands. If a sick
or dead bird is found nearby, the CDC asks people to remove
feeders for at least two weeks.

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