There’s nothing cuter than chicks and ducklings during spring. If you are planning on handling poultry this Easter season, or anytime, make sure you follow a few simple rules to keep you and your family healthy and happy.

Owning and caring for live poultry requires some special accommodations. Even when chicks and ducklings may appear to be healthy and clean, there is still a chance that they could be carrying Salmonella germs.

First and foremost, make sure anyone who handles chicks or ducklings washes their hands thoroughly immediately after. Even if you didn’t hold the animal, you should also wash your hands just in case. Better safe than sorry!

If you have children under the age of five, you should not let them handle chicks and ducklings. If the bird happens to be carrying any germs, your child will be more susceptible to illness because their immune system is still developing. Also, pregnant women, older adults, and those with illnesses may have weakened immune systems and should be cautious if handling poultry.

Even though they’re cute, you should refrain from putting the chicks and ducklings close to your face. Remember that these are farm animals and may carry poultry diseases. That’s why you won’t want them close to your face. Also, refrain from bringing them into your home because that could expose your entire house to those germs.

These are important things to remember this holiday to keep your spring activities safe and fun! Find more tips to ensure that your family is practicing safe egg and poultry handling all times of the year by visiting the Egg Safety Center.