CDC investigates multistate Salmonella outbreak linked to backyard poultry

12 articles · Updated · CDC · Apr 23

As of April 13, 2026, 34 people across 13 states have been infected with Salmonella Saintpaul, with 13 hospitalizations and no deaths reported.
Most affected individuals had recent contact with backyard poultry, and genetic testing confirmed the same strain in both humans and poultry samples. Cases span all ages, with a median age of 12 years.
The true number of cases is likely higher due to underreporting, and the outbreak may extend beyond known states. Some bacterial samples show antibiotic resistance, prompting ongoing investigations into poultry sources and hatcheries.

Will this outbreak trigger stricter federal rules on antibiotic use in animals?

What makes this backyard poultry Salmonella strain resistant to crucial antibiotics?

Are specific national hatcheries or retail chains linked to this outbreak?

How can consumers verify if the live poultry they buy is Salmonella-free?

Is the popular trend of keeping backyard chickens creating a new health crisis?

How is genome sequencing helping officials predict the outbreak's next move?