RELEASE: Chicks, ducklings linked to Salmonella risk

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 30, 2026

Health officials warn against chicks and ducklings as Easter gifts

Chicks, ducklings linked to Salmonella risk

SANTA FE – Seasonal cuteness aside, chicks and ducklings are a leading source of salmonella infections in young children.

The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) reports between 100-130 cases of salmonella each year. Children who handle, snuggle or keep poultry inside homes face increased exposure to Salmonella bacteria. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates Salmonella causes about 1.35 million infections in the United States every year. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps.

“Many birds shed Salmonella, meaning they release Salmonella bacteria in their feces even when they appear healthy,” said Sarah Shrum Davis , an epidemiologist with NMDOH’s Infectious Disease Epidemiology Bureau. “Children under 5 are at highest risk of serious infection from Salmonella.”

Among preventive measures:

Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching live baby poultry.

Do not let live baby poultry inside the house or in areas where food or drink is prepared, served or stored.

Consult your doctor if you or your children experience symptoms of Salmonella.

To learn more, visit: https://www.nmhealth.org/about/erd/ideb/eip/foodnet/salmonella/ or

https://cdc.gov/salmonella/prevention/index.html

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NMDOH

Robert Nott , Communications Director | robert.nott@doh.nm.gov | (505) 479-0147

The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) works to promote health and wellness, improve health outcomes, and deliver services to all New Mexicans. As New Mexico’s largest state agency, NMDOH offers public health services in all 33 counties and collaborates with 24 Native American Tribes, Pueblos and Nations.

New Mexico Department of Health | 1190 S St Francis Dr | Santa Fe, NM 87505 US

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