OLYMPIA — Four more cases of Salmonella illness, including one here in Clallam County, which are all linked to contact with backyard poultry, were reported by Washington state health officials this week.

These four new cases, which also included one each in Island, Stevens, and Spokane counties, bring Washington’s outbreak total to 20 cases so far this year.

Washington cases range in age from 1-85 years old; two-thirds are female; eight cases have resulted in hospitalization.

While anyone can get a Salmonella infection, children are especially at risk of illness because they are less likely to wash their hands and have more frequent hand-to-mouth contact than adults.

Symptoms of Salmonella infection begin about one to three days after exposure and include diarrhea, fever, and stomach pain.

Anyone who owns backyard poultry should keep the following safety tips in mind:

• Always wash hands with soap and water right after touching live poultry or anything in the area where they live and roam.
•  Don’t snuggle or kiss live poultry or allow them in family living spaces.
•  Don’t eat or drink where poultry live or roam.
•  Call your health care provider if you or your child has a high fever, severe diarrhea, or other symptoms that concern you.

For more information on safe live poultry handling and the health risks associated with Salmonella, visit the DOH website.