There are five cases in the Weber-Morgan area and three in Utah County, central and southeastern Utah. However, health officials in Utah County are still attempting to rule out a food source.
The strain of Salmonella Montevideo also matches 23 other cases throughout the country.
Birds shed salmonella in their stool and the infection could be passed by touching the pets or anything in their environment. Those that handle chicks should wash their hands immediately, according to a communicable diseases nurse.
Symptoms of infection include diarrhea, fever and stomach cramping.
The Centers for Disease Control recommends that children under 5 not handle birds.
The Utah cases involve ages 7 months to 20 years. At least two people were hospitalized.
