Belgium Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Eggs
A Belgium salmonella outbreak linked to eggs has infected at least 306 people, according to the country’s food safety agency.
Officials believe the outbreak began at a chicken farm in Flanders.
The Belgian Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain, known as AFSCA, found the same salmonella strain in the farm and among people who became sick.
However, the actual number of infections could be higher.
AFSCA said some people may have experienced only mild symptoms. Others may have shown no symptoms at all and never received testing.
The agency said nobody has died from the outbreak.
“Salmonella is relatively common in Belgium, but we never had such a broad cluster with so many people hit,” an AFSCA spokesperson said.
Millions of Eggs Recalled
AFSCA first detected the contamination in May.
Officials then recalled affected eggs and closed one hen house at the farm.
As more people became sick, authorities took stronger action.
Officials eventually closed the entire farm and culled the poultry.
A second egg recall followed on August 10.
The company that sold the eggs is Laerco BV. The company did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.
Authorities estimate that up to 2 million potentially contaminated eggs reached consumers in Belgium and neighbouring Luxembourg.
Health officials in Luxembourg also issued a recall.
More Cases Could Emerge
AFSCA warned that some recalled eggs could still remain in people’s homes.
Those eggs could lead to additional infections if consumers eat them.
The agency advised consumers to follow food safety guidance and avoid recalled products.
Thorough cooking can reduce the risk of salmonella infection.
However, consumers should still follow official recall instructions rather than relying only on cooking.
The outbreak has become one of Belgium’s largest recorded salmonella clusters.
What Is Salmonella?
Salmonella refers to a group of bacteria that can cause salmonellosis.
The infection commonly spreads through contaminated food.
Typical symptoms include diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps.
Symptoms can vary from mild to severe.
People who develop symptoms after eating potentially contaminated food should follow advice from health authorities and seek medical care when necessary.
Belgian officials continue to monitor the outbreak as they investigate the contaminated eggs and possible additional cases.
