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Cluster Of Salmonella Infections In N.H. Linked To National Outbreak, Backyard Chickens

Anne Peterson via Flickr CC

State health officials say several recent salmonella infections in New Hampshire are linked to a national outbreak.  

According to the Department of Health and Human Services, 11 people in the state were infected with salmonella shortly after exposure to chicks or chickens.

The patients became ill between late March and early July, and most had been raising the chicks in their homes or backyards.

Two were hospitalized, and all have fully recovered.

State health officials say all of the cases reported purchasing baby chicks from local farm supply stores, all of which are supplied by Mt. Healthy Hatcheries in Ohio.

The hatchery has been implicated in an ongoing multistate outbreak of salmonella, as well as outbreaks in 2011 and 2012.

State health director Jose Montero says while the cluster of cases is concerning, salmonella is always a risk with poultry.

He stressed the importance of proper hygiene when coming in contact with live poultry.

Michael serves as NHPR's Program Director. Michael came to NHPR in 2012, working as the station's newscast producer/reporter. In 2015, he took on the role of Morning Edition producer. Michael worked for eight years at The Telegraph of Nashua, covering education and working as the metro editor.
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