Urgent Salmonella Warning: 63 Infected by Contaminated Eggs

Health officials in the United States have issued a nationwide alert regarding a Salmonella outbreak linked to contaminated eggs, which have sickened at least 63 individuals. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have identified the source of the illnesses as in-shell eggs distributed by Vega Farms, Inc. Consumers are urged to check their refrigerators immediately and dispose of affected eggs, regardless of their sell-by dates.

The majority of reported cases have been concentrated in Northern California, where the eggs were sold through grocery stores, co-ops, farmers’ markets, and restaurants. However, officials caution that the distribution was extensive enough to pose a national risk. Testing confirmed the specific strain of Salmonella responsible for the outbreak, allowing health agencies to trace the contamination back to a batch of eggs primarily distributed across the country.

Consumers should be particularly vigilant regarding Vega Farms brand brown eggs, identified by a Handler Code of 2136, a Date of 328, and sell-by dates of 12-22-25 and earlier. While brand names may vary, the investigation typically centers on the farm where the eggs were laid and processed.

Salmonella can exist on both the exterior and interior of eggs. Contamination often occurs when hens are infected or when eggs come into contact with faeces. This internal contamination means that washing the eggshell will not eliminate the risk.

Recognizing the symptoms of a Salmonella infection is crucial. Symptoms typically manifest between six hours to six days after consuming contaminated food and include diarrhoea, fever, and stomach cramps. Although most healthy adults recover within four to seven days without specific treatment, the infection poses a significant risk to vulnerable groups, including children under five, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. In these cases, the illness can escalate, potentially leading to severe complications if the infection spreads to the bloodstream.

Given the heightened risk, officials emphasize the importance of immediate action. Consumers are advised to dispose of any eggs matching the recall criteria and to prevent cross-contamination by thoroughly washing hands, utensils, countertops, and cutting boards with hot, soapy water after handling raw eggs. Additionally, it is critical to cook eggs thoroughly until both the yolk and white are firm.

The FDA has classified the recall as Class I, the most urgent category, indicating that consumption of the product could lead to serious health consequences or death. These actions, along with the prompt removal of the contaminated products, are essential steps in controlling the outbreak and safeguarding public health.

Anyone experiencing severe symptoms such as dehydration, high fever, or bloody diarrhoea should seek immediate medical attention and inform their healthcare provider of potential exposure to contaminated eggs. Health officials urge the public to prioritize hygiene and prompt disposal as effective measures to prevent further spread of the outbreak. The CDC has cautioned consumers, stating: if the eggs in your fridge match the recall, do not take any chances—dispose of them immediately.