The Kittitas County Health Department reports people in Yakima and Kittitas County had been infected with the salmonella bacteria. The department reported the origin for the infection has been traced to baby chicks, that came from a distributor in Walla Walla to a retailer in Kittitas County.

Salmonella has to be allowed to run its course as there is no vaccine, though a physician may prescribe a treatment to alleviate some of the symptoms to prevent complications.

Salmonella can be spread through the stool of the infected person, and that person can remain contagious for several weeks. Health workers advise frequently washing hands can help eliminate the spread of salmonella.