Outbreak Linked to Alfalfa Sprouts; People Sickened with E. coli and Salmonella

An outbreak linked to alfalfa sprouts has sickened 55 people with E. coli and Salmonella across 15 states, underscoring the ongoing risk of foodborne illness from contaminated foods.

Four people have been hospitalized, while 46 cases involved E. coli, seven Salmonella, and two both infections. Nearly 70% of reported illnesses occurred in Minnesota and Wisconsin, with some cases linked to restaurants using Everything Sprouts-branded alfalfa.

Investigators identified three E. coli strains and one Salmonella strain and estimate additional illnesses may have gone unreported because some infections resolve without medical care. The investigation highlights the importance of timely outbreak detection and traceback. Read more from The Hill here and find the CDC Food Safety Alert here.