Is it necessary to "clean" chicken before cooking it?

[tea6tina]

I have noticed that certain ethnic groups and persons of an older generation "clean" chicken before cooking it. I do not do that for fear of cross contamination. Is it necessary to clean chicken or is this just an older generational and ethnic custom?

 

[Megan M]

If you had ever worked in a meat distribution center, you would not only wash chicken but all other meats as well.

 

[Greco]

I don't always. Sometimes I rinse it off and pat it dry with a paper towel. Never with chicken breast filets.