Salmonella Outbreak May Be Linked to Jimmy John's Alfalfa Sprouts

Illinois health officials are investigating a salmonella outbreak that's sickened nearly 50 people in nine counties.

The Illinois Department of Public Health said many of the people who have become ill have reported eating alfalfa sprouts at Jimmy John's restaurants.

IDPH officials say alfalfa sprout producers and suppliers are being investigated, and produce testing is ongoing.

The health department has received reports of 46 people falling ill since Nov. 1.

The affected counties are: Adams, Champaign, Cook, Kankakee, McHenry, McLean, Peoria, Will and Winnebago.

Symptoms of illness caused by salmonella include diarrhea, vomiting, fever and stomach cramps. Illness usually develops within six to 72 hours after being exposed to salmonella bacteria.