No Salmonella outbreak: KZN Health MEC

THE MEC for Health in KwaZulu-Natal, Sibongiseni Dlomo, on Monday said there is no Salmonella outbreak in the province.

The MEC’s comments were made at a press briefing following reports of an alleged outbreak after several food poisoning cases were reported at a restaurant in uMhlanga.

“There has been an outbreak of food poisoning, whose source was identified at a specific restaurant. The seven people who were affected by this type of food poisoning were treated at a private hospital.

“Based on information obtained from the persons who became ill, and having considered the symptoms, incubation period, and type of meals consumed, it is most likely that this was due to salmonella, which may have been present in the raw eggs used to make hollandaise sauce,” he said.

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Dhlomo added the matter had to do with poorly prepared food.

“The issue of food safety, and the inspection of places where food is prepared, is a municipal task. We would therefore advise that this area must be strengthened.

He cautioned all food handlers to be cautious and adhere to the highest standards of hygiene possible, when preparing food.

Salmonella bacteria is commonly caused by contaminated food or water. Symptoms include diarrhoea, fever, chills and abdominal pain.

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Northglen News also approached Netcare uMhlanga Hospital (where it is believed some patients were treated) for comment regarding the alleged outbreak however they would not comment.

“The hospital is not in a position to provide you with the information requested, as we adhere to patient confidentiality and privacy of personal information, in accordance with relevant legislation.”

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