Seventeen people have been hospitalized following a salmonella outbreak linked to mini pastries.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is recalling a number of Sweet Cream brand Mini Patisserie.

They were distributed at bakeries, hotels, restaurants, cafeterias, hospitals and retirement residences, and may also have been served at catered events.

A total of 61 illnesses have been confirmed so far in New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia, according to Health Canada.

People became sick between late September and mid-December and many reported eating mini pastries at catered events or other establishments where the recalled product was served.

The recalled mini pastries were distributed to British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia.

People infected with salmonella bacteria can spread it to others several days to several weeks after infection, even if they do not have symptoms.

Most who become ill will recover fully after a few days without treatment, but it can also cause severe illness and hospitalization, particularly among older adults, young children, and those who are pregnant or have weakened immune systems.

Symptoms can include chills, a fever, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps and a sudden headache.