NEW JERSEY (WABC) — A nationwide Salmonella outbreak linked to recalled eggs has sickened at least 79 people across seven states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Among the reported cases, two people in New Jersey have been infected, prompting public health warnings about egg safety and proper food handling.

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Where the Outbreak Has Spread

The outbreak, caused by the Salmonella bacteria, has primarily affected the following states:

• California: 63 cases — the highest concentration of infections

• Nevada and Washington: 4 cases each

• Arizona: 3 cases

• Nebraska and New Jersey: 2 cases each

• Kentucky: 1 case

Health officials believe the true number of cases may be higher, as many people with mild symptoms often do not seek medical care or report their illness.

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Source of the Outbreak: Recalled Eggs from August Egg Company

The outbreak has been traced to organic and cage-free brown eggs produced by August Egg Company, headquartered in California. The company has issued a voluntary recall of approximately 1.7 million dozen eggs due to possible Salmonella contamination.

The affected eggs were distributed to grocery stores and restaurants across multiple states, including:

• Arizona, California, Illinois, Indiana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, Washington, and Wyoming

Brands and Retailers Involved:
The recalled eggs were sold under various brands at major retailers such as:

• Walmart, Save Mart, FoodMaxx, Lucky, Smart & Final, Safeway, Raley’s, Food 4 Less, and Ralphs

The eggs in question have “sell by” dates between March 4, 2025, and June 19, 2025. A complete list of affected brands and product codes can be found in the official recall notice issued by health authorities.

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What Is Salmonella and How Does It Affect You?

Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause serious gastrointestinal illness in humans. It is commonly transmitted through consumption of contaminated food or water, particularly raw or undercooked eggs, poultry, and meat.

Symptoms usually appear within 6 hours to 6 days after infection and may last for several days. They include:

• High fever

• Diarrhea (sometimes bloody)

• Abdominal cramps

• Nausea or vomiting

• Chills and fatigue

In some cases—particularly in young children, the elderly, or people with weakened immune systems—Salmonella infection can become severe and may require hospitalization.

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Why Many Cases Go Undetected

Dr. Liju Philip, an emergency physician, noted that many Salmonella infections are underreported because symptoms can be mild and self-resolving.

“Any time there’s an outbreak, the real number of infected people is likely higher than what’s officially recorded,” Dr. Philip explained. “Many people recover without seeing a doctor or even knowing they were infected.”

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Prevention Tips: How to Stay Safe During an Outbreak

To minimize your risk of infection, Dr. Philip and the CDC recommend the following safety practices:

• Avoid eating raw or undercooked eggs

• Always cook eggs until both the whites and yolks are firm

• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after handling eggs

• Clean kitchen surfaces that come into contact with raw eggs

• Discard any eggs included in the recall, even if they appear normal

Dr. Philip emphasized that Salmonella can spread not only through ingestion but also through cross-contamination on hands, utensils, and kitchen surfaces.

“This is the time to be extra cautious. Make sure you check your egg cartons and clean your hands and cooking areas thoroughly,” he added.

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Public Reactions and Shopping Concerns

As inflation continues to affect grocery prices and egg shortages remain a concern, some consumers say these recalls make shopping decisions even more complicated.

Nihar Patel, a shopper in California, said:

“You hear about recalls so often now. With egg prices already so high, it just adds one more thing to worry about. We really have to pay attention to what we’re buying.”

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Conclusion

The Salmonella outbreak tied to recalled eggs is a serious public health issue that highlights the importance of food safety and personal hygiene. Health officials urge consumers to check their egg products, follow proper cooking procedures, and stay informed through official health alerts.

If you experience symptoms of Salmonella and suspect you may have consumed contaminated eggs, contact your healthcare provider and report your case to local health authorities.