Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) investigators have linked three cases of salmonellosis (illness due to infection with Salmonella bacteria) to ducklings purchased from the Tractor Supply Company store in Inver Grove Heights. The cases are associated with a multi-state outbreak of salmonellosis being investigated by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The ill Minnesotans ranged in age from 18 years to 60 years. All three cases were caused by Salmonella Infantis, which has been previously associated with poultry. The cases occurred from late March through early April 2013.

While the cases shared the same type of Salmonella, any chick or duck can carry a variety of Salmonella strains. MDH State Public Health Veterinarian Dr. Joni Scheftel said the outbreak underscores the importance of washing your hands thoroughly after handling chicks, ducklings or other birds.