Thousands of Australian eggs have been contaminated with salmonella

Consumers were warned to check their eggs immediately, fearing that thousands of people were contaminated with salmonella.

"It's important to know that not all eggs are affected, but we recommend you discard them if you have a BEC or BEC115 stamp," NSW Food Authority director Lisa Szabo said Friday.

This stamp will appear on the eggshells themselves, rather than on the box.

The eggs were not sold in cartons to the supermarket giants Woolworths or Coles, said Dr. Szabo.

Instead, they were provided in catering cartons.

Consumers were warned to check their eggs immediately, fearing that thousands of people were contaminated with salmonella (broth)

"All other eggs can be safely eaten, provided that people observe the usual precautions required for a specific food such as eggs, such as washing hands and avoiding raw egg products."

"Especially if you're a vulnerable population such as people who are immunocompromised, under the age of two, or over 70 or pregnant," Szabo said.

"We usually see an increase in Salmonella during the hottest summer months. It is therefore a good time to remind people to dress well when preparing food and always keep their hands, surfaces and utensils clean and dry before and after handling eggs. & # 39;

Symptoms of salmonellosis include fever, headache, severe diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.

Symptoms usually begin about six to 72 hours after eating contaminated food and usually last four to seven days, but can last much longer.

NSW Health data indicate that in January 2019, there were 412 cases of Salmonella infection.

This figure is similar to the number reported in January in recent years.

Children under 5 represent most of the cases reported this month, although all age groups are concerned.

The NSW Food Authority imposed a prohibition order on the company that had produced the eggs earlier in January, preventing them from selling eggs while searching for possible Salmonella contamination.

"Even though it is likely that most of the affected eggs are no longer part of the supply chain, it is possible that people bought them earlier and still have them at home in the refrigerator or at home. in the pantry, "said Dr. Szabo.

Anyone with immediate health problems is urged to contact a health professional.