63 People Sick, 13 Hospitalized Related to Eggs Contaminated with Salmonella

63 People have Fallen Ill Due to Salmonella-contaminated Eggs

In a recent health scare, a total of 63 people have fallen ill and 13 have been hospitalized as a result of consuming eggs contaminated with Salmonella. The culprit behind the outbreak was traced back to Vega Farms, prompting an urgent recall of over 1,500 dozen eggs on December 5th.

The California Department of Public Health issued a statement regarding the recall of select eggs on December 12th. The affected products identified by the handler code 2136 and sell-by dates before December 22nd included 12-egg cartons and 30-egg flats of brown eggs from Vega Farms based in Dixon, California. These recalled eggs were distributed to restaurants and made available in grocery stores and farmers’ markets across Northern California.

As of the latest update released on December 5th, a total of 63 California residents have been afflicted by the Salmonella outbreak strain. Out of these cases, 13 individuals required hospitalization due to the severity of their symptoms. In response to the situation, Vega Farms confirmed that the contamination was a result of their processing equipment and not their flock of chickens, as reported by a spokesperson to local news outlet KCRA3.

Efforts to obtain a comment from Vega Farms by PEOPLE regarding the issue have thus far been unsuccessful, as the company did not respond promptly to requests. According to the California Department of Public Health, symptoms of Salmonella infection can manifest within six hours to six days after exposure. These symptoms may include stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, headache, nausea, and vomiting, as stated by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA).

While most cases of Salmonella poisoning typically resolve within a few days without the need for medical treatment, the infection can pose a more serious threat to vulnerable populations such as infants, elderly adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. It’s crucial for anyone experiencing symptoms related to Salmonella poisoning after consuming eggs from Vega Farms to seek medical attention promptly.

The health and safety of consumers remain a top priority, and recalls such as this emphasize the importance of stringent food safety measures at every stage of production. As investigations into the source of contamination continue, authorities are working diligently to prevent further cases of illness linked to the consumption of contaminated eggs.

In the wake of this incident, it serves as a reminder for both producers and consumers to remain vigilant about food safety practices to safeguard public health. Stay informed, follow recommended guidelines, and report any suspicious symptoms or concerns promptly to prevent similar health crises in the future.