Introduction to the Salmonella Outbreak
Health officials are investigating a salmonella outbreak linked to eggs that has sickened 95 people across the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Thursday.
Details of the Recall
California-based Country Eggs LLC issued a recall of its large brown cage-free sunshine yolk eggs on Wednesday. The eggs were also sold under the brand names Nagatoshi Produce, Misuho and Nijiya Markets, according to the Food and Drug Administration. They were also packed for food service as large brown "sunshine yolks" or "omega-3 golden yolks."
Affected Areas and Dates
The eggs were delivered to grocery stores and food service distributors in California and Nevada from June 16 through July 9, the FDA said. All have sell-by dates of July 1 through Sept. 16 and have the code "CA-7695" on the carton.
Cases and Hospitalizations
California has reported the majority of the cases, 73. Illnesses have also been reported in 13 other states: Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Minnesota, North Carolina, Nebraska, Nevada, New York, Pennsylvania and Washington. Eighteen people have been hospitalized and there have been no deaths, the CDC said.
Timeline of the Outbreak
The CDC saw a surge in illnesses tied to the outbreak in mid-June through mid-July, though cases were detected dating to January. Recent cases may not be reported yet, the agency said, as it takes three to four weeks to determine if an illness is linked to an outbreak.
Understanding Salmonella Infection
Salmonella infection causes diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps, usually starting within six hours to six days after eating contaminated food. Most people recover in four to seven days. The CDC warns that children under 5, adults 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems may have more severe illnesses that require treatment.
Prevalence of Salmonella
There are an estimated 1.35 million salmonella infections each year in the U.S., and the bacteria are a leading cause of foodborne illnesses.
Monitoring and Surveillance
Earlier this summer, the CDC quietly scaled back a federal-state partnership that monitors for foodborne illnesses, reducing surveillance to just two pathogens: a severe type of E. coli and salmonella.
Conclusion
The salmonella outbreak linked to eggs is a significant public health concern, with 95 reported cases across the United States. While the recall of contaminated eggs is a crucial step in preventing further illnesses, it is essential for consumers to be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions. The CDC’s efforts to monitor and investigate foodborne illnesses are critical in protecting public health.
FAQs
Q: What are the symptoms of salmonella infection?
A: Salmonella infection causes diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps, usually starting within six hours to six days after eating contaminated food.
Q: Who is most at risk for severe salmonella infection?
A: Children under 5, adults 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems may have more severe illnesses that require treatment.
Q: How many cases of salmonella infection are estimated to occur each year in the U.S.?
A: There are an estimated 1.35 million salmonella infections each year in the U.S.
Q: What is the status of the recall of contaminated eggs?
A: California-based Country Eggs LLC issued a recall of its large brown cage-free sunshine yolk eggs, which were also sold under other brand names.
Q: How can I protect myself from salmonella infection?
A: Consumers can protect themselves by checking the sell-by dates and codes on egg cartons, handling eggs safely, and cooking eggs thoroughly to prevent contamination.
