RUSH: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that last month alone, there were 235 cases of salmonella linked to families who raise chickens in their backyards. So far this year there have been over a thousand cases reported, in 49 states. And in Ohio, something’s happening there, they’ve reported the most cases: 73.

Now, as I’m sure you know, contracting salmonella is not a walk in the park. Within 12 to 72 hours people come down with stomach cramps, fever, diarrhea, and it can usually last four to seven days. It’s not fun.

So the CDC has a stern warning. Those of you who raise chickens in your backyards, pay extra special attention, because this could save you a lot of heartache and stomachaches.

The CDC says that you people should not kiss your chickens. That’s right. Stop kissing the chickens. Stop kissing the chicks. And to those of you who like to fondle your chickens, cuddle with your chickens, all of that touchy-feely activity you may do with your chickens: wash your hands after you’re through touching your chickens.

In other words, don’t play chicken with your chickens. Protect yourself! And for the rest of you who don’t kiss chicks or chickens, if you’re ever tempted, maybe now you’ll know better not to try it. Who does this in the first place? I never heard of this.