**Title:** Major Egg Recall: Over 20 Million Eggs Linked to Salmonella Outbreak
**Meta Description:** Over 20 million eggs recalled due to salmonella outbreak, affecting 79 individuals across seven states. Learn more about the situation.
**URL Slug:** egg-recall-salmonella-outbreak
**Headline:** Over 20 Million Eggs Recalled Amid Salmonella Outbreak Affecting 79 People
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a recall of more than 20 million eggs following reports of a salmonella outbreak that has hospitalized 21 individuals. The affected eggs, distributed by August Egg Company, were sold to major retailers, including Walmart and Safeway, between February 3 and May 19. The sell-by dates for these eggs range from March 4 to June 19, as detailed in the FDA’s comprehensive list of involved brands.
The recall was initiated on June 6, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has since launched an investigation into the outbreak. According to the CDC, a total of 79 people across seven states have fallen ill due to a strain of salmonella associated with the recalled eggs. California has reported the highest number of cases, with 63 individuals affected, while Nevada and Washington each have four cases. Other states, including Arizona, New Jersey, Nebraska, and Kentucky, have reported three or fewer cases.
Symptoms of salmonella infection typically include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, which can manifest six hours to six days after exposure to the bacteria. Most individuals recover within four to seven days without requiring medical treatment, as noted by the CDC.
Earlier this year, the U.S. faced an egg shortage due to an ongoing bird flu outbreak in poultry, which caused egg prices to reach record highs. However, prices have stabilized in recent weeks as the outbreak has slowed. This egg recall coincides with another salmonella outbreak linked to whole cucumbers, which has sickened 45 people and resulted in 16 hospitalizations, according to the CDC. The agency emphasizes that the actual number of individuals affected by both outbreaks is likely higher than reported, as it can take three to four weeks to confirm if a sick person is part of an outbreak.
In summary, the recall of over 20 million eggs highlights ongoing food safety concerns and the importance of monitoring outbreaks to protect public health.
**FAQ Section:**
**Q: What should I do if I have purchased the recalled eggs?**
A: If you have purchased eggs from August Egg Company with the specified sell-by dates, it is advised to discard them immediately and consult your healthcare provider if you experience any symptoms of salmonella.
