It is reported that 20 people from Durban have been hospitalised because of salmonella poisoning.
Social media reports by people who contracted salmonellosis claim the outbreak stems from a restaurant in Umhlanga. However, it seems that the dining establishment is not the only cause of the outbreak.
Doctors confirmed that four children from a Cowies Hill creche also had salmonellosis. A further seven people attending a private lunch were taken to Hillcrest Private Hospital after eating a dessert made from egg.
Furthermore, a Florida Road restaurant had to be closed for two days when its patrons reported falling ill.
While the eThekweni Municipality assures investigations are underway, it is still unclear which egg supplier is responsible for the outbreak. An egg supplier claims a company based in KwaZulu-Natal has imported millions of eggs from Brazil.
He says the imported eggs are old and kept just above freezing point. When they are brought to room temperature, the eggs start sweating and that is one of the causes of contamination.
But what is salmonella poisoning, and can you only get it from eggs?
Salmonella infection is a common bacterial disease and affects the intestinal tract. The bacteria typically live in animal and human intestines, with the most common carriers being dogs, cats, reptiles and birds.
Humans become infected most frequently through contaminated water or food. Especially with poultry, beef, veal and pork. It can also be spread through milk or eggs which have been contaminated.
Usually, people with the infection have no symptoms whatsoever. However, there are those who develop diarrhoea, fever and stomach cramps within a matter of hours.
While most healthy people recover within days without treatment, there are those who will face dehydration and require medical attention. Contracting the bacteria can also turn life-threatening if the infection spreads beyond your intestines.
With investigations underway, people must visit their GPs if they show any of the symptoms.
Symptoms include:
- Stomach cramps
- Bloody stools
- Fever
- Diarrhoea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headaches
