THINK AGAIN…
Written by Brittany Russell |
Easter – the Christian celebration of Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection – oddly enough brings to mind brightly colored eggs, baskets full of candy and large chocolate bunnies. Traditions associated with the Easter season – feasting, getting back what you gave up for Lent, outdoor activities – are enjoyable for children and adults alike. However, some Easter traditions are of particular concern for children, placing them at risk for serious illness. Many parents may decide to treat their child to a baby chick or duckling as a pet this Easter holiday.
Because they are so soft and cute, many people do not realize the potential danger baby chicks and ducklings can be to small children. Young birds often carry harmful bacteria called Salmonella. Each spring, children become infected with Salmonella after receiving a baby chick or duckling.
Harmful bacteria carried in the chick and duckling’s intestine contaminates their environment and the entire surface of the animal. Children can be exposed to the bacteria by simply holding, cuddling or kissing the birds. Children are most susceptible to infection because they are more likely than others to put their fingers into their mouths and because their immune systems are still developing. Others at increased risk include persons with HIV/AIDS, pregnant women, the elderly and those with immune-compromised illnesses.
Consider the following before purchasing this holiday- specific pet:
To meet the demand around Easter, chicks are specially hatched in large quantities and are shipped around the country. Hatching and shipping many animals at one time increases stress upon chicks and ducklings, making them more prone to disease and early death.
Many chicks and young birds carry Salmonella in their feces. It is difficult to know if a chick is carrying Salmonella as there is usually no sign of the illness.
At this time, the federal government has no restrictions concerning the sale of chicks and ducklings. State governments have recognized the risk of Salmonella to young children and have passed restrictions to pet stores and local agencies that prohibit the sale of baby chicks around Easter.
More about Salmonellosis
Salmonellosis (sal-mon-el-OH-sis) is a disease caused by the bacterium Salmonella. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever and stomach pain that start one to three days after ingestion of the bacteria, and last for one week. Other symptoms may be nausea, chills, headaches or an achy feeling. Young children, the elderly and other immune-compromised persons may have a more severe reaction.
Treatments usually consist of fluid therapy and pain relief. Antibiotics should only be used to treat severe cases of illness because antibiotics may prolong the disease as many strains of Salmonella are resistant to antibiotics.
References:
1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention http://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/easter_chicks.htm
2. http://www.doh.wa.gov/ehp/ts/Zoo/salmonellachick.html
Follow Us