General Discussion
Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsCDC WARNS AMERICANS TO STOP KISSING, SNUGGLING THEIR CHICKENS
A recent advisory from the Centers for Disease Control is warning Americans of the hazards of contact with chickens, including the risk of catching salmonella.
This year alone, the CDC has recorded 1,003 cases of salmonella across the U.S., including two deaths. The agency's suggestions include always washing your hands with soap and water after touching backyard poultry, not letting chickens inside the house and setting aside a separate pair of shoes to wear while taking care of backyard birds.
The most unusual line in the CDC advisory, though, warns owners not to "kiss backyard poultry or snuggle them and then touch your face or mouth."
Salmonella is a bacterial pathogen that can cause diarrhea, abdominal cramps and vomiting. It is most dangerous to young people and the elderly, and can spread from the gastrointestinal system to the bloodstream. It can be fatal if not treated with antibiotics.
https://www.newsweek.com/cdc-stop-kissing-chickens-1458082?utm_source=Twitter&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=NewsweekTwitter
Coventina
(27,093 posts)I actually don't have any chickens, but I've been intrigued by the idea of backyard chickens.
I have friends and relatives that have pet chickens and I'm a little jealous.
Dennis Donovan
(18,770 posts)Who knew?
NightWatcher
(39,343 posts)Safety 1st.
albacore
(2,398 posts)Having sex using a feather is a little kinky.
Having sex using the whole chicken is perverted.
MyNameGoesHere
(7,638 posts)That just sounds like something out of a smut mag.
MissB
(15,805 posts)Shipped through US mail.
As full sized chickens, several of them still jump up on my lap when I sit down outside on a chair. Several of them jump on the back of my hand and walk around with me.
I dont kiss them. I have outside shoes that dont leave the property or go inside the house. I wash my hands after feeding, gathering eggs or handling them.
Its basic sanitation.
aikoaiko
(34,165 posts)Bayard
(22,048 posts)It annoys them.
madinmaryland
(64,931 posts)smirkymonkey
(63,221 posts)Who knew?
Brainfodder
(6,423 posts)Also, don't date a chicken!?!