Tiny turtles, baby chicks and Salmonella

I have now received my second news release about the risk of children contracting Salmonella from baby turtles, chicks and ducklings.

Most people infected with Salmonella develop diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps 12 to 72 hours after infection, according to the CDC. The illness — caused by bacteria sometimes carried, for example, in baby bird’s intestines — usually lasts four to seven days. Most people recover without treatment.

I grew up on a farm and remember playing with all three culprits. Apparently I got lucky.

According to a news release:

During 2006, the Oklahoma State Department of Health identified an outbreak of Salmonella associated with handling chicks, ducklings, and other baby birds purchased from farm supply stores as pets.  Fourteen cases were identified and seven required hospitalization.

The state health department has provided some tips about handling baby creatures.

And now, some baby animal photos: