WDH: watch out for germs spread by cute chicks

As the time of year arrives when people buy baby poultry and start planning flocks, the Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) is reminding people to watch out for the harmful germs baby birds can sometimes carry even if they appear healthy and clean.

“Because poultry chicks are soft and cute, many people want to touch, hold or even snuggle them but this behavior can be risky because the birds can have germs on their body and in their droppings,” said Tiffany Greenlee, surveillance epidemiologist with WDH.

Baby poultry are a common source of Salmonella, which can cause diarrhea, fever, stomach cra...