CDC Warns of Risks of Easter Chicks

Mar 29, 04:13 PM

Current Headlines: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control said baby chicks shouldn't be given to children for Easter gifts because of the risk of salmonella.

The CDC said some children can be exposed to salmonella by holding, cuddling or kissing the birds.

Children are most susceptible to infection because they are more likely to put their fingers into their mouths and because their immune systems are developing, the CDC said in a release.

People with HIV/AIDS, pregnant women, the elderly and others with compromised immune systems are also especially at risk.

Easter chicks are more likely to carry salmonella because the high demand at this time of year means chicks are likely hatched in large quantities and shipped around the country, which increases the stress upon the animals and makes them more prone to disease.