Dr Brett Sutton said that the department had identified five cases of illness which could be linked to this strain of salmonella – Salmonella Enteritidis.
Bridgewater Poultry is conducting a recall of their products which have been available at Woolworths and independent stores in NSW, Victoria and Tasmania and Coles in Victoria and South Australia.
The eggs are packaged as Woolworths 12 Cage Free Eggs 700g, Victorian Fresh Barn Laid Eggs 600g, Victorian Fresh Barn Laid Eggs 700g, Victorian Fresh Barn Laid Eggs 800g, Loddon Valley Barn Laid 600g (VIC and SA only).
The best before dates are: BB 20 MAR 19, 23 MAR 19, 27 MAR 19, 30 MAR 19, 3 APR 19, 6 APR 19, 10 APR 19, 14 APR 19, 17 APR 19, 20 APR 19, 24 APR 19, 27 APR 19, 29 APR19.
Dr Brett Sutton said all other eggs are safe to eat, provided people follow the usual requirements to cook eggs thoroughly.
“People should avoid raw egg products particularly if they are vulnerable such as those with compromised immune systems, under two or over 70 years of age or pregnant,” Dr Sutton said.
“It is important to know that not all eggs are affected, but any eggs carrying the listed brands should return them to the point of sale for a full refund. Alternatively, they can be discarded by throwing them into the garbage, not the garden or compost.
“These eggs should not be given to pets or livestock.”
Dr Sutton said salmonellosis symptoms include fever, headache, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.
Symptoms usually start around six to 72 hours after the contaminated food is eaten and usually last for four to seven days but can continue for much longer. If you have immediate health concerns, contact your medical professional.
Further information about the recall visit the FSANZ website