Salmonella outbreak linked to recalled eggs sickens 98 across 17 states

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said Friday that 98 people in 17 states have contracted salmonella linked to eggs that were later recalled. Illnesses began between Nov. 21 and June 30, and 26 of the patients required hospitalization, though no deaths have been reported.

Federal investigators identified shell eggs recalled by Indiana-based Midwest Poultry Services as a likely source, but the company does not account for every case. Midwest Poultry had previously recalled eggs produced on Texas farms from June 6 to July 3, which were sold under multiple brand names with sell-by dates ranging from July 20 to Aug. 17.

The recalled products were distributed to Kroger stores in Texas and Louisiana and to Brookshire Grocery stores in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico and Mississippi. Samples taken from the Texas farms tested positive for salmonella, and genetic analysis matched the strain found in patients.

"Consumers should check their refrigerators for recalled eggs and throw them away or return them to stores for a refund," a federal spokesperson advised.

Health officials note that salmonella symptoms include diarrhea, fever, vomiting, dehydration and abdominal cramps, and most recover within a week. Severe cases can occur in young children, older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems.