The outbreak of salmonella cases in Illinois linked to subway restaurants is spreading. To date, there are now 68 confirmed cases, of which 24 had been hospitalized. People with the illness reported eating at Subway locations in central Illinois 24 counties. Health officials say this is specific strain of salmonella in the outbreak is known as Hvittingfoss and it is uncommon. It only affects one to two people in Illinois every year. "It’s a rare type. It’s not seen all the time. That’s one way they can tell it’s coming form the same source whatever it is," added Schmalz.
That helped determine Subway as the commonality among the illnesses, but health officials have yet to pinpoint the specific source between all of the sandwich maker’s products and suppliers. "We’re continuing to identify cases, we’re continuing to get specimens into our lab for testing," said Kelly Jakubek with the Illinois Department of Public Health. Subway did voluntarily recall and replace certain products last week. Health workers continue to urge people who got sick after eating at Subway restaurants on or after May 10 to contact their health care provider or local health department.