Warning Against Baby Poultry Gifts Due to Salmonella Risk

Sat, 04 Apr 2026 03:20:10 +0000
Public Health

Oregon Health Authority issued a public health notice on April 2, 2026, warning against giving chicks, ducklings, or other baby poultry as Easter gifts due to salmonella risks. Since 2020, five outbreaks linked to baby chicks have occurred in Oregon, affecting at least 55 cases of salmonellosis, with approximately half of cases involving children under 18. The notice recommends that children under 5, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals avoid handling live poultry.