Final CDC investigation of Salmonella infections linked to Gravel Ridge Farms
Media Statement
For Immediate Release: Thursday, October 25, 2018
Contact: Media Relations,
(404) 639-3286
A final CDC investigation update of the multistate outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to Gravel Ridge Farms cage-free large eggs has been posted: https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/enteritidis-09-18/index.html
Key Points:
- As of October 25, 2018, this outbreak appears to be over.
- A total of 44 people infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella were reported from 11 states. Twelve people were hospitalized. No deaths were reported.
- Illnesses started on dates ranging from May 17, 2018 to August 26, 2018.
- The investigation indicated that shell eggs from Gravel Ridge Farms were the likely source of the outbreak.
- On September 8, 2018, Gravel Ridge Farms recalled cage-free large eggs with use-by dates of July 25, 2018 through October 3, 2018, because they may have been contaminated with Salmonella.
- Consumers and restaurants should always handle and cook eggs safely to avoid foodborne illness from raw or undercooked eggs.
- Eggs should be thoroughly cooked. Scrambled eggs should be firm, not runny. Fried, poached, boiled, or baked eggs should have firm whites and yolks.
- Make sure that foods that contain raw or lightly cooked eggs, such as hollandaise sauce and Caesar salad dressing, are made only with pasteurized eggs.
- Wash hands and items that come into contact with raw eggs—including counters, utensils, dishes, and cutting boards—with soap and water.
- People get sick from Salmonella 12 to 72 hours after swallowing the germ and experience diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps.
- Most people recover within a week, but some illnesses can last longer and be more severe.
If you have further questions about this outbreak, please call the CDC media line at (404) 639-3286. If you have questions about cases in a particular state, please call that state’s health department.
