At a Glance
- CDC links Salmonella outbreak to raw oysters, with 64 people sick in 22 states.
- 20 people hospitalized, nearly two dozen.
- Outbreak strain Salmonella Telelkebir not drug-resistant.
- Why it matters: Avoid raw oysters to reduce risk of foodborne illness.
A Salmonella outbreak linked to raw oysters has sickened 64 people across 22 states, with 20 hospitalized, according to the CDC. The outbreak strain, Salmonella Telelkebir, first identified in June 2025, is not drug-resistant, but still poses a serious health risk. Health officials advise consumers to avoid raw oysters and clams until further notice.
Outbreak Details
The CDC reports that the outbreak began with cases in June 2025 and the latest cases were reported in November 2025. Symptoms can take up to a week to appear, and it can take three to four weeks before a case is linked to the outbreak, meaning the true toll is likely higher than the documented 64 cases.
The CDC stated:
> “Epidemiologic data show that oysters may be contaminated with Salmonella and may be making people sick in this outbreak,”
- 64 people sick in 22 states
- 20 hospitalized, no deaths
- Strain Salmonella Telelkebir is not drug-resistant
- Time lag: up to a week for symptoms, 3-4 weeks to identify outbreak
How to Protect Yourself
The CDC advises that cooking oysters before eating can reduce the risk of food poisoning. Consumers should also avoid raw oysters and clams, which can carry other pathogens such as hepatitis A, Vibrio bacteria, and norovirus.
**The CDC stated:
> “Cook oysters before eating to reduce your risk of food poisoning,”
- Cook oysters thoroughly before consumption
- Avoid raw oysters and clams
- Watch for gastrointestinal symptoms; seek medical care if symptoms appear
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| First known cases | June 2025 | Salmonella Telelkebir outbreak |
| Latest reported cases | November 2025 | 64 people sick, 20 hospitalized |
| Current estimate of hospitalized | 20 (no deaths) |
Key Takeaways
- Raw oysters are linked to a Salmonella outbreak affecting 64 people.
- 20 people hospitalized; strain is not drug-resistant.
- Cook oysters before eating and avoid raw oysters/clams to stay safe.
Consumers should heed CDC guidance and steer clear of raw oysters to avoid Salmonella and other foodborne illnesses.
