Cases of salmonella linked to egg liquid

HEALTH OFFICIALS are investigating an outbreak of salmonella in Hull linked to a nationally distributed liquid egg white product.

Three cases have been confirmed to be linked to the consumption of “Dr Zak’s Barn Farmed Liquid Egg White” – a product sometimes used by bodybuilders as a good source of protein – with a further five under investigation.

Symptoms of a salmonella infection include diarrhoea, stomach cramps and sometimes vomiting and fever.

The first cases were identified in Hull, and Hull Council’s Public Health team has been working closely with partners including Public Health England (PHE).

The products were recalled nationally last month.

The council’s food and health and safety manager Rachel Stevenson said: “Officers acted quickly to remove local supplies and to send samples of the product through to PHE laboratories for testing.

“This initial action ultimately led to the identification of other cases in Hull and the formation of the outbreak control team led by PHE, which then progressed the investigation of the outbreak from a local to a national level.”

Most of those affected have now recovered. In the majority of cases – six in all – the product had been brought in Hull.

Dr Nick Phin, Deputy Director, National Infection Service, Public Health England, said salmonella could cause a serious infection in those with weakened immune systems or in vulnerable groups including babies, the elderly or pregnant women. Simple steps to stop its spread include cooking food thoroughly, washing fruit and vegetables and washing your hands after using the bathroom.