A salmonella outbreak tied to a major egg recall has sickened nearly 80 people and sent at least 21 to the hospital, health officials have said.

The outbreak has been linked to brown organic and brown cage-free eggs distributed by the August Egg Company, according to a June 6 notice from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

More than 1.7 million eggs are being recalled. The Hilmar, Calif.—based company distributed the eggs between February and May. They were sold in nine states: Arizona, California, Illinois, Indiana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, Washington and Wyoming, the Associated Press reported.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said 79 people across seven states have gotten sick from the same strain of salmonella linked to the recalled eggs.

Salmonella can cause diarrhea, fever, vomiting, stomach cramps and dehydration. Most people recover within a week, but serious illness can occur, especially in young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems, the AP reported.

Health officials are urging people to check their egg cartons for affected brands and plant codes or Julian dates, which are listed on the FDA and CDC websites.

Consumers who have recalled eggs should throw them away or return them to the store where they bought them. They should also wash and disinfect any kitchen surfaces, containers or utensils that touched the eggs to prevent contamination.

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