How to protect yourself from foodborne illnesses
In 2018, there were food recalls for everything from eggs to ham to romaine lettuce. Learn about the risks of food poisoning and how to protect yourself.
Dwight Adams, Indianapolis Star
When grocery shopping, be careful which eggs you pick up.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have linked recalled eggs to a salmonella outbreak and works with the FThe Food and Drug Administration is expected to investigate the situation.
According to USA TODAY, 65 people in nine states have been infected with salmonella traced to eggs supplied by Milo’s Poultry Farms, LLC. The illnesses began between May 23 and Aug. 10, according to an FDA alert released Friday. So far, 24 people have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported.
Here are the implications for Americans:
Which eggs are being recalled?
According to the CDC and FDA investigation, all carton sizes and expiration dates of the following egg brands are being recalled:
- Milo’s Poultry Farms
- Tony’s Fresh Market
The CDC strongly recommends that you throw away the recalled eggs or return them to the store. Any items or surfaces that came into contact with the eggs should be thoroughly cleaned with hot, soapy water or in the dishwasher.
Are there salmonella outbreaks in Texas?
So far, no. The following states have reported cases of salmonella related to the egg recall:
- California: 2
- Colorado: 1
- Iowa: 2
- Illinois: 11
- Michigan: 2
- Minnesota: 3
- Utah: 1
- Virginia: 1
- Wisconsin: 42
What are the symptoms of salmonella disease?
Here are the symptoms of Salmonella given by the CDC:
- Most people became infected with Salmonella Diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps may occur.
- Symptoms usually begin 6 hours to 6 days after swallowing the bacteria.
- Most people recover in 4 to 7 days without treatment.
- Some people, particularly children under five, adults over 65, and people with weakened immune systems, may experience more severe illness that requires medical treatment or hospitalization.
What are salmonella?
Salmonella infection, or salmonellosis, is a common bacterial disease that affects the intestinal tract. The bacteria normally live in the intestines of animals and humans and are excreted in feces. People most commonly become infected by consuming contaminated food or water.
— USA TODAY reporter Ajane Forbes contributed to this report.
