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The salmonella outbreak that apparently began in May, seems to continue, warned the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of USA. The outbreak began several weeks before the July introduction of new federal safety rules aimed at reducing the risk of salmonella in eggs, reported The New York Times.

In a press conference Thursday afternoon, federal health officials said they had received nearly 2,000 reports of salmonella poisoning between May and July. But officials could not specify how many of these cases were related to the removal of eggs.

However, you can expect more cases of salmonella poisoning due to infected eggs, said Dr. Christopher R. Braden, acting director of the Division of Foodborne Diseases, Water and Environment of the CDC.

Figures updated

According to state health authorities, eggs contaminated with salmonella have sickened at least 266 people in California, 28 in Colorado and seven in Minnesota. Have also reported suspected cases in Arizona, Illinois, Nevada, North Carolina, Texas and Wisconsin, reported Associated Press.

The recall includes whole eggs packed between May 16 and 13 August. They come in boxes containing six to 18 eggs which are marked with the numbers of plant P-1026, P-1413 and P-1946. It should return the eggs, and receive a refund.

The FDA advised consumers:

• Getting rid of the eggs removed, or returned to stores for a refund.
• Consult a physician if you feel sick after eating the eggs removed.
• Always store eggs in the fridge.
• Discard cracked or dirty eggs.
• Wash hands and utensils and preparation surfaces with soap and water after contact with raw eggs.
• Cook eggs until both the white and yolk are firm, and eat them quickly after cooking.

The agency also warned consumers not to keep the eggs warm or at room temperature for more than two hours, and not eating raw eggs or restaurant dishes made with raw eggs, undercooked or unpasteurized milk.

You should also avoid eating undercooked eggs, especially children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems, or diseases that cause weakness, the agency said.