Easter, When Birds Given as Pets Can Infect Children

This article is not about parrots - it's about an Easter tradition whose time has passed. Baby animals, including baby chickens and ducklings are sometimes put on display or given as gifts. Most people tend not to realize the potential danger baby chicks and ducks can pose to small children.

Frequently, young birds carry a harmful bacteria - Salmonella. Bacteria in baby chick & duck intestines contaminate both their environment and the whole surface of their body. Exposure to the bacteria can easily result from holding, cuddling and/or kissing the birds. Children are most susceptible to infection as there is a greater likelihood they will put their fingers in their mouths and because their immune systems are still developing. Others at risk include persons with HIV/AIDS, pregnant women, the elderly and other persons whose immune systems are compromised.

To reduce the risks of exposure:

1. Don't buy live animals as Easter gifts - give toy stuffed animals instead.

2. Don't permit children under 5 years of age to handle baby chickens or ducklings or the packages in which the birds arrive.

3. Anyone who touches the birds or their environment should wash their hands immediately afterwards. Pacifiers, toys, bottles, etc. should not touch the baby birds or their enclosures. If these objects do come in contact with the birds or their enclosures, wash them with warm soapy water.

4. Don't allow eating or drinking while interacting with the birds or their environment and prepare and consume food in an area apart from the birds.

Salmonellosis is a disease caused by Salmonella bacteria. Most persons exhibit diarrhea, fever and stomach pain 1 to 3 days after ingestion of the bacteria. These symptoms usually resolve after 1 week. Young children and others at elevated risk may have more severe infections which can require medical attention and care.

Please have a happy and joyous Easter, but please protect the health of your family and loved ones. 

Our April 2014 bird of the month is Simon. Simon is a Cherry Headed Conure. He's a fairly small bird who is absolutely adorable. He has a small, high voice which I love to hear. He speaks a bit and offers his opinions in bird-speak frequently. He's friendly to people and loves attention - particularly having his head scratched. He endeared himself to many at the rescue by falling asleep on the shoulder of one of our volunteers. A picture of Simon is at the top of this page.

Visit our website for an adoption application - http://www.wiltonparrotrescue.com/default.html