OLYMPIA, Wash. – The Washington State Department of Health is warning people who keep backyard poultry to take steps to avoid salmonella.

Thirteen cases of the illness have been reported in eight counties across Washington, including in Skagit County.

Four people have been hospitalized but there have not been any deaths in Washington.

It is part of a nationwide salmonella outbreak linked to poultry that has sickened over 100 people in 31 states.

Birds that look healthy can still carry salmonella and can easily spread it to areas where they are kept.

People should wash hands thoroughly after handling poultry, avoid snuggling or kissing birds, and keep them and supplies outside.