According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the salmonella outbreaks in 21 states that have sickened 52 people, including four in Tennessee, are most likely linked to backyard chickens.

The CDC reported yesterday five people have been hospitalized and almost 25 percent of the people infected are children under the age of 5.

A news release from the CDC says most of the people reported having had contact with chicks or ducklings obtained through hatcheries or agricultural stores. The CDC cautions people can become sick from touching live backyard poultry or from close exposure to their environment.

Even sick birds may appear healthy, with no sign of illness. The CDC also cautions people to wash their hands after handling birds, and avoid touching their faces after snuggling with their chickens or ducks.

It says sick birds may appear clean with no signs of illness. It says people should wash their hands after handling the birds and avoid touching their faces after snuggling them.