Almost 30 people have fallen sick in Spain after eating an egg-based dish.
Public health officials in Eibar helped to identify cases, analyze the outbreak's potential source, withdraw potentially affected products, and ensure measures were taken to prevent further risks.
Inspections and sample analysis were undertaken in response to a salmonellosis outbreak at an establishment following the consumption of tortillas on Aug. 9. Spanish tortillas contain egg and potatoes.
Of the 29 cases, 21 were confirmed through microbiological testing, and eight were probable cases. In total, 25 patients required medical attention and nine were hospitalized but all have since been discharged. Samples from some affected individuals were positive for Salmonella Enteritidis.
Factors that contributed to the incident include insufficient heat treatment, storage of food without refrigeration, and potential cross-contamination during preparation.
Inspection and traceback results
The Gipuzkoa Epidemiological Surveillance Unit was notified of the outbreak on Aug. 11. Sick people were interviewed and inspections were conducted at the establishment and in the egg supply chain.
Tortillas and eggs available at the site were sampled. Tortillas were destroyed, while the eggs were placed under precautionary holding pending testing results.
Conditions regarding food preparation, storage, and handling were checked. This found deficiencies related to egg traceability, cleaning and disinfection, storage of tortillas at room temperature, and the prevention of cross-contamination.
The outlet was told to improve hygiene practices during egg handling and the cleaning and disinfection of utensils during preparation. It was also instructed to prevent contact between raw egg and ready-to-eat foods, improve the identification and control of egg batches, and implement proper rotation of raw materials.
Eggs came from a farm in the Aragon region. An order was issued to block and withdraw eggs sent to other establishments.
The distributor was stopped from sending food and marketing activities until it demonstrated that it had an effective traceability and product recall plan.
In 2024, Spain recorded 250 Salmonella outbreaks and 1,894 outbreak-related cases. A total of 216 people were hospitalized. Eggs and egg products were linked to 131 incidents.
