Eggs are linked to a salmonella outbreak says the CDC. A recent salmonella outbreak has been traced to eggs supplied by Milo’s Poultry Farms, LLC, prompting an investigation by both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This outbreak, which has affected nine states, underscores the critical need for vigilance in food safety.
Scope of the Outbreak
As of the latest reports, 65 individuals across nine states have been infected with salmonella linked to eggs produced by Milo’s Poultry Farms. The reported cases span from May 23 to August 10, according to an FDA alert issued on Friday. The outbreak has led to 24 hospitalizations, though no fatalities have been reported at this time.
The CDC notes that the actual number of individuals affected may be significantly higher than the current tally. This discrepancy arises because many people recover from salmonella without seeking medical attention or undergoing testing. Moreover, the reporting process can take several weeks, meaning recent cases may not yet be reflected in the statistics.
Demographic Breakdown
The CDC has provided a detailed demographic analysis of the reported cases. Individuals affected by the outbreak range in age from two to 88 years. The gender distribution is fairly balanced, with 56% of those infected being female and 46% male. The majority of reported cases are among white individuals, accounting for 92% of the cases, followed by 5% African-American or Black and 3% Asian.
Source and Response
Milo’s Poultry Farms, LLC, based in Bonduel, Wisconsin—approximately 29 miles north of Green Bay—has voluntarily recalled all eggs from their farm in response to the outbreak. The affected eggs were distributed to retailers and foodservice distributors in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Michigan.
The recall affects eggs labeled with either Milo’s Poultry Farms or Tony’s Fresh Market. In response to the situation, Tony’s Fresh Market has stated that they are fully cooperating with the FDA’s investigation. Marisa Kutansky, spokesperson for Heritage Grocers Group, which owns Tony’s Fresh Market, emphasized the company’s commitment to customer safety. “The health and safety of our customers is our top priority. We are fully cooperating with the FDA on their investigation and have taken immediate action by removing all affected products related to this recall from our shelves,” Kutansky said. “We are monitoring this recall and will continue to do all we can to ensure our customers’ safety.”
Investigative Actions
The CDC and FDA are working together to trace the source of the contamination and prevent further spread. The agencies are analyzing data, conducting inspections, and coordinating with public health officials in the affected states to identify any additional cases and ensure that all potentially contaminated products are removed from the market.
Public health officials advise anyone who may have purchased eggs from Milo’s Poultry Farms or Tony’s Fresh Market to check their refrigerators and discard any affected products. It is crucial to follow food safety practices, such as cooking eggs thoroughly to kill harmful bacteria and practicing good hygiene to prevent cross-contamination.
Implications for Food Safety
This outbreak highlights the ongoing challenges in ensuring the safety of the food supply. Despite stringent regulations and oversight, incidents like this serve as a reminder of the importance of rigorous food safety practices at every stage of the supply chain—from production to distribution to retail.
Consumers are urged to remain vigilant and stay informed about food recalls and safety alerts. Regularly checking updates from the CDC and FDA can help individuals stay aware of potential risks and take appropriate actions to protect their health.
In conclusion, the salmonella outbreak linked to Milo’s Poultry Farms eggs underscores the critical importance of food safety and prompt response in addressing public health concerns. As investigations continue, both agencies are working to prevent further cases and ensure the safety of the food supply. For those affected, monitoring health and following recommended food safety guidelines are key steps in mitigating the risk of salmonella and other foodborne illnesses.
Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Recalled Eggs Affects 65 People Across Nine States
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported on Saturday that a salmonella outbreak tied to recalled eggs has affected 65 individuals across nine states.
Among the 63 cases with detailed information, 24 people have been hospitalized. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported thus far. However, the CDC notes that the outbreak presents challenges in treatment due to antibiotic resistance. Laboratory tests have indicated that the bacteria responsible for the outbreak are resistant to nalidixic acid and ciprofloxacin, which are commonly used antibiotics.
The illnesses associated with this outbreak began between May 23 and August 10. The affected eggs were supplied by Milo’s Poultry Farms LLC, based in Bonduel, Wisconsin. These eggs were distributed to stores and restaurants in Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin, though the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggests they may have been shipped to additional locations.
The recall, announced on Friday, involves all types, sizes, and expiration dates of eggs labeled either with Milo’s Poultry Farms or Tony’s Fresh Market. Consumers are advised to dispose of any recalled eggs immediately or return them to the store where they were purchased. In addition, any surfaces or utensils that may have come into contact with the recalled eggs should be thoroughly cleaned with hot, soapy water or in a dishwasher to prevent contamination.
Salmonella infections can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, which may appear within hours or days after consuming contaminated food. While most people recover without the need for medical treatment, it is crucial to seek prompt medical attention if symptoms are severe, persist beyond a few days, or if signs of dehydration are present. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems, are at higher risk of severe illness.
The recall serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety practices and vigilance in monitoring food recalls to safeguard public health.