A large-scale salmonella outbreak has led to the urgent recall of eggs across nine states, but will it be enough to contain the spread?
At a Glance
- 65 people from 9 states have been infected with the same strain of Salmonella.
- Affected states include Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, California, Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota, Utah, and Virginia.
- Milo’s Poultry Farms LLC has been identified as the source of contamination.
- 24 people hospitalized, no deaths reported.
- Consumers are advised to dispose of recalled eggs.
Urgent Egg Recall Across Multiple States
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have announced an urgent recall of eggs from Milo’s Poultry Farms LLC. This recall affects products sold under the labels “Milo’s Poultry Farms” and “Tony’s Fresh Market.” The states impacted by this recall include Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, California, Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota, Utah, and Virginia.
Authorities found the outbreak strain of Salmonella in the egg packing facility and hen egg laying house of Milo’s Poultry Farms. The strain is resistant to nalidixic acid and ciprofloxacin, complicating treatment efforts. This salmonella outbreak has resulted in 65 confirmed cases of infection. Most of these cases were reported in Wisconsin (42) and Illinois (11).
Egg recall is linked to a salmonella outbreak, CDC says: See which states are impacted https://t.co/vAah5NOuIo
— USA TODAY (@USATODAY) September 8, 2024
Steps in the Investigation
Environmental samples tested positive for the Salmonella strain. Following this revelation, Milo’s Poultry Farms LLC initiated the recall on September 6. All types, sizes, and expiration dates of eggs from the affected labels have been included in the recall. The public is cautioned against consuming these eggs and is advised to dispose of or return them immediately.
“Eggs under the labels Milo’s Poultry Farms or Tony’s Fresh Market are all part of the recall and it includes all cartons and carton sizes as well as all types of eggs such as cage-free and organic.”
CDC reports indicate that the first cases emerged in late May, with the bulk of infections occurring through July and August. The official count is likely underestimating the true number of cases, hinting that the scope of this outbreak may be larger than currently documented.
Health and Safety Measures
Salmonella symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, typically showing up 6 hours to 6 days after infection. Most people recover within 4 to 7 days without the need for treatment. However, severe cases may necessitate hospitalization, especially for children under five, the elderly, and immunosuppressed individuals.
“Symptoms usually clear up within a week, but people with weakened immune systems, including young children and older adults, are more susceptible to severe, and sometimes fatal, infections, the F.D.A. said.
The FDA recommends washing surfaces and items that have come into contact with the recalled eggs using hot soapy water or a dishwasher to prevent further contamination. They also encourage the public to stay informed through the CDC’s Salmonella Questions and Answers page and to consult their state health departments for specific case information.
