You may be aware of the massive egg recall of August 2010. This recall was initiated because of salmonella poisoning (food poisoning), which caused more than 300 American to get sick.
According to the CDC, salmonella poisoning is caused by a bacteria that is found in contaminated food, water or by contact with infected animals.
Salmonella can cause people to develop diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. Severe diarrhea caused by salmonella poisoning can be so serious that you may need to be hospitalized.
You can protect yourself from becoming sickened with salmonella from eggs by avoiding eating recalled eggs or products made from them. Throw out recalled eggs or better yet, return them to the store where you purchased them and get a refund.
If you think that you got sick from eating recalled eggs or products made from recalled eggs, discuss the issue with your doctor. If it is an emergency, call 911. You should also report illness to your state health department and the federal government: For the FDA, call 866-300-4374. For the USDA call 888-674-8954.
To learn it the eggs you have purchased are on the recall list, go to the FDA website at www.fda.gov
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About the Author
Dr. Dorene E. Carter is a registered dietitian and nutrition consultant with over 25 years of experience in teaching, counseling, training, project development and writing. Dr. Carter earned her PhD in nutrition from the University of California, Berkeley and is currently President & CEO of CHANA Project, the Child Health and Nutrition Access Project.
