Washington, D.C.: Nearly 100 people across 17 US states have fallen ill in a Salmonella outbreak linked to recalled shell eggs, prompting federal health authorities to urge consumers to check their refrigerators and discard affected products immediately.
According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), 98 people have been infected in the outbreak, with illnesses reported between November 21 and June 30. While no deaths have been reported, 26 people have been hospitalised, highlighting the seriousness of the foodborne illness.
Federal investigators said recalled shell eggs produced by Midwest Poultry Services, an Indiana-based company, are a likely source of the outbreak, although officials believe they do not account for every reported case.
Recalled eggs traced to Texas farms
The FDA said Midwest Poultry Services had previously recalled shell eggs produced and distributed from farms in Texas between June 6 and July 3.
The recalled eggs were marketed under several brand names and carry sell-by or best-by dates between July 20 and August 17.
Laboratory testing conducted on samples collected from the company’s Texas farms detected the presence of Salmonella bacteria. Genetic analysis further confirmed that some of the bacterial samples matched the strain responsible for infecting people in the current outbreak.
Health officials continue to investigate whether additional sources may also have contributed to the spread of the infection.
Eggs sold across multiple states
According to the FDA, the recalled eggs were distributed through several retail chains across the southern United States.
Among the stores that received the affected products were Kroger outlets in Texas and Louisiana, along with Brookshire Grocery stores located in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico and Mississippi.
Authorities have advised consumers who purchased eggs from these retailers during the affected period to verify product details against the recall notice.
Consumers advised to discard recalled products
The FDA has urged consumers to immediately check their refrigerators for recalled eggs.
Anyone who finds eggs included in the recall should either throw them away or return them to the place of purchase for a refund.
Officials also recommend thoroughly cleaning and sanitising any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with the recalled eggs to reduce the risk of cross-contamination.
Retailers and food service establishments have also been advised not to sell or serve the affected products.
Symptoms of Salmonella infection
Salmonella infection commonly causes symptoms such as:
- Diarrhoea
- Fever
- Stomach cramps
- Severe vomiting
- Dehydration
Most healthy individuals recover within a week without requiring specific treatment.
However, the infection can become severe in young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems, who may require hospitalisation due to complications arising from dehydration or bloodstream infections.
Health experts advise anyone experiencing severe or persistent symptoms after consuming eggs to seek medical attention promptly.
Investigation continues
Federal health officials are continuing their investigation to determine the full extent of the outbreak and whether additional products or suppliers may be involved.
Consumers are encouraged to remain vigilant, follow food safety advisories and avoid consuming any recalled eggs until the investigation is complete.
The FDA and other public health agencies continue to monitor the situation while working to prevent further illnesses linked to the contaminated products.
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