Ramona, California — San Diego County health officials are investigating a Salmonella outbreak linked to Ramona Family Naturals Market after 13 confirmed and probable illnesses were reported over the past several weeks. Authorities say the illnesses appear to be connected to mayonnaise prepared with raw, unpasteurized eggs, prompting the deli to change its food preparation practices as the investigation continues.
Health Officials Confirm 13 Illnesses
According to San Diego County Public Health Services, the outbreak has resulted in 13 confirmed and probable cases since June 21.
The individuals who became ill range in age from 27 to 60 years old, and four people required hospitalization because of their infections.
Investigators said the illnesses are believed to be associated with food purchased from the deli at Ramona Family Naturals Market, though the investigation remains ongoing.
County officials emphasized that this outbreak is not connected to the separate Salmonella outbreak involving shell eggs in the Midwest, despite both involving the same type of bacteria.
Raw, Unpasteurized Eggs Identified as Likely Source
Public health investigators believe the outbreak is linked to mayonnaise made with raw, unpasteurized eggs served at the market’s deli.
Raw eggs can sometimes contain Salmonella bacteria, increasing the risk of foodborne illness if they are used in foods that are not fully cooked.
Following discussions with county officials, the market’s owner voluntarily stopped using raw, unpasteurized eggs in all deli food products.
The business has been working with both the County Department of Environmental Health and Quality and Public Health Services as investigators continue reviewing the source of the outbreak.
Symptoms Can Begin Within Hours
Health officials said Salmonella infection, also known as salmonellosis, commonly causes:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea, sometimes containing blood or mucus
- Abdominal cramps
- Fever
Symptoms generally begin 12 to 72 hours after consuming contaminated food and typically last four to seven days.
Most healthy people recover without needing medical treatment, but dehydration and more serious complications can occur in some cases.
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Certain Groups Face Higher Risk
According to county health officials, young children under age 5, adults aged 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of developing severe illness from Salmonella infections.
Anyone in these higher-risk groups who develops symptoms after eating potentially contaminated food is encouraged to seek medical care promptly.
Officials also advise anyone experiencing severe diarrhea, prolonged fever, or signs of dehydration to contact a healthcare provider.
County Urges Customers to Report Illnesses
The county is asking anyone who ate food purchased from Ramona Family Naturals Market or its deli and later developed symptoms consistent with Salmonella to contact their healthcare provider.
Health officials are also encouraging both current and recovered patients to report their illness to the San Diego County Department of Environmental Health and Quality, helping investigators identify additional cases and better understand the scope of the outbreak.
The investigation remains active as officials continue monitoring for new illnesses and working with the market to reduce the risk of further infections.
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