In response to a salmonella outbreak affecting 65 individuals in nine states, health officials in Wisconsin have issued a recall of eggs believed to be the source of the infections. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services announced on Friday that among those affected, 42 cases were reported within the state, where the affected eggs are suspected to have been sold.

According to the department, the recalled eggs were distributed in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Michigan through various retail stores and food service distributors. The recall encompasses all types of eggs, including conventional cage-free, organic, and non-GMO, with a range of carton sizes and expiration dates. The affected containers are labeled under the brands "Milo's Poultry Farms" or "Tony's Fresh Market."

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed in a statement that a strain of salmonella has infected a total of 65 people across Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Iowa, Virginia, Colorado, Utah, and California. As of Friday, there have been 24 hospitalizations, although no deaths have been reported.

The egg recall has been initiated by Milo's Poultry Farms LLC of Bonduel, Wisconsin, as stated by the CDC. As a precautionary measure, the Wisconsin health department urges individuals who have purchased the recalled eggs to refrain from consuming or cooking with them and to dispose of them immediately. Additionally, restaurants and food establishments are advised not to serve or sell these eggs.

If anyone who consumed the affected eggs experiences symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, or vomiting lasting for several days, they are advised to seek medical attention, as highlighted by the health department.

In an effort to combat salmonella in poultry products, the U.S. Department of Agriculture introduced new measures in July. These measures include stricter thresholds for salmonella levels and mandatory testing for six particularly harmful strains of bacteria found in turkey and chicken. If the proposed standards are not met or any of the strains are detected, poultry sales may be halted, and products may be subject to recall.

According to estimates from the CDC, salmonella is responsible for approximately 1.35 million infections each year, with most cases attributed to contaminated food. The Agriculture Department further estimates that chicken and turkey contribute to around 168,000 infections annually.

As the recall of these eggs is underway, individuals are encouraged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Regular updates and further instructions will be provided by the relevant authorities to manage the ongoing situation and prevent further spread of salmonella infections.