RAMONA, California. — A Salmonella outbreak that has sickened 23 people in Southern California has been linked to eggs from a Ramona farm, health officials said.
Seven people have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported.
The farm, Happy Hens, came under investigation after health officials looked into a group of Salmonella cases connected to the area. Testing later found Salmonella Enteritidis in two of the farm’s seven hen houses.
The investigation started with illnesses reported among people who had eaten food from Ramona Family Naturals Market. At first, officials suspected raw eggs used to make mayonnaise at the deli. As more cases were identified, investigators expanded their search for the source.
The cases involved people from several Southern California communities, including Ramona, La Mesa, Del Mar and Jamul. One case was also reported in Riverside County.
Testing from the farm became a key part of the investigation. Officials said genetic testing showed that the Salmonella found in the hen houses matched the strain found in people who became sick.
Happy Hens later issued a voluntary recall for its eggs. The recalled products include organic shell eggs in different sizes and grades with the egg handler code CA-0677. The eggs were sold at stores, restaurants, farmers markets and directly from the Ramona farm.
The recall includes certain lots with sell-by dates ranging from Sept. 10 through Sept. 24.
Health officials are telling consumers not to eat the recalled eggs. Anyone who has them should throw them away or return them to the place where they were purchased.
The farm has also disputed parts of the way the investigation and recall were described by local officials. Happy Hens co-owner Chloe Nevarez told local media that the farm had concerns about the process and was considering additional testing.
The investigation is continuing, and officials have said the number of illnesses could change as more information becomes available.
Salmonella can cause diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps. Symptoms can become more serious in young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
