**FDA Upgrades Egg Recall to Highest Risk Level Following Salmonella Outbreak**

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated its warnings regarding a significant egg recall, which began over a month ago, after a salmonella outbreak affected individuals across nine states. The agency now warns that consuming the contaminated eggs could result in severe health issues or even death.

The initial recall was issued in early September and involved all types of chicken eggs supplied by Milo's Poultry Farms LLC, based in Bonduel, Wisconsin. This recall was prompted after environmental samples tested positive for salmonella bacteria, leading to infections in dozens of people within the states of Wisconsin, Illinois, and Michigan. Medical reports confirm that between May 23 and August 10, 2024, 63 people fell ill, out of which at least 24 required hospitalization. Fortunately, there have been no fatalities reported to date.

On September 30, the FDA elevated the recall alert to a Class I status, its most critical level. The FDA’s Class I recall signifies a scenario where the usage of or exposure to the recalled product poses a reasonable probability of causing serious health impacts or death. As part of its investigation, the FDA performed onsite inspections and collected samples from Milo's Poultry Farms’ packing facility and poultry house, in which Salmonella enteritidis was detected.

The recall encompasses all egg varieties and expiry dates provided by Milo's Poultry Farms. This includes every carton size and all egg types branded under Milo's Poultry Farms and Tony's Fresh Market, as well as eggs distributed to food service sectors.

Salmonella infections usually manifest between 12 to 72 hours following the consumption of contaminated products. Symptoms often persist for four to seven days and can include fever, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Vulnerable groups such as young children under five, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems are at heightened risk of severe infections.

In response to the outbreak, Milo's Poultry Farms LLC has temporarily halted their production and distribution operations. The company will undergo thorough testing and sanitation procedures for their farms and processing facilities to ensure safety before resuming operations.