Maureen Anderson describes the increasing attention to backyard poultry as a pandemic pastime. She then reminds us that new poultry owners need strong education about stewardship and the zoonotic potential of these feathered, would-be friends.
. . . backyard chickens are becoming increasingly popular – despite some of their associated infectious disease hazards . . . – Maureen Anderson
Source: WormsandGerms Blog, September 4, 2020. Link. Citing a new fact sheet from the Ontario, Canada government, Anderson repeats recommendations and reminders:
- Wash your hands after handling birds, or items or surfaces they contact
- Supervise children around birds (also see rule #1 above)
- Don’t kiss or snuggle the birds (also see rule #2 above)
- Don’t eat around the birds
- Don’t let the birds into places where there are things that you eat (i.e. kitchen)
- If anyone in your family gets sick, be sure to tell your doctor about the birds
INSIGHTS: Some things that make shake your head in disbelief! Anderson referenced an article in her post that reveals just how naïve some folks are when it comes to poultry and their likely fate. It’s worth reading.
Source: How a Toronto quarantine trend became a London area farm sanctuary’s headache, CBC, July 5, 2020. Link.