Can you get Salmonella from eggs?

“I ate scrambled eggs that were still a little runny, and now I’m worried because my stomach feels off. I’m not sure if it’s related. Can you get salmonella from eggs?”

Daisy Oliveira
Registered Nurse CNO #13564387

Yes, you can get Salmonella from eggs. The bacteria can be found on the eggshell or, less commonly, inside the egg if the hen was infected before the egg was laid. Eating raw or undercooked eggs, or foods made with them, can lead to infection.

Eggs have been linked to Salmonella outbreaks in the US and other countries. Reports from public health agencies show that contaminated shell eggs and egg dishes can cause illness, sometimes leading to hospitalization. Salmonella Enteritidis is one of the main types connected with eggs.

Risk is higher when eggs are not stored, handled, or cooked properly. Bacteria on the shell can spread to hands, counters, utensils, or other foods. Cooking eggs well and avoiding raw egg mixtures can lower the chance of getting sick.

Keep eggs refrigerated, cook them until both the yolk and white are firm, and wash hands and surfaces after handling raw eggs. Seek medical care if diarrhea is severe, there is a high fever, signs of dehydration, blood in the stool, or symptoms in young children, older adults, pregnant people, or those with weakened immune systems.

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