Following genetic testing that linked a regional salmonella outbreak that sickened dozens to eggs from Happy Hens poultry farm in Ramona, the farm voluntarily recalled its eggs this week, according to the California Department of Public Health. On Friday, the department warned consumers and busin esses not to eat, serve or sell recalled Happy Hens brand in-shell eggs due to the potential contamination with Salmonella. Consumers should throw away recalled eggs or return to place of purchase for a refund, the department said, adding that consumers should contact their healthcare providers if they become sick with symptoms of Salmonella infection within seven days of eating the product. ​ After initially denying the farm was linked to the outbreak, Happy Hens voluntarily recalled the eggs on Sept. 8. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration visited the farm Aug. 17 to conduct what the county described as a routine inspection unrelated to the outbreak. Investigators collected samples from hen house floors, perch rails and nest boxes, which can contain chicken excrement, to determine whether the flock was infected, county officials said. Related stories Ramona Sep 5 Happy Hens owner responds to County and FDA test results on salmonella outbreak Ramona Sep 5 Happy Hens owner responds to County and FDA test results on salmonella outbreak Ramona Sep 4 Genetic testing links regional salmonella outbreak to Ramona farm eggs: SD County San Diego County Aug 18 Ramona egg rancher disputes County findings in Salmonella outbreak Health Aug 17 Happy Hens eggs source of Salmonella outbreak from Ramona deli's mayonnaise, county says Ramona Aug 17 Happy Hens eggs source of Salmonella outbreak from Ramona deli's mayonnaise, county says “Salmonella was found by the FDA in two of seven hen houses tested,” according to the county. “Genetic testing of the salmonella linked the farm to the strains from ill San Diegans.” The county urged residents to thoroughly cook eggs until both the whites and yolks are firm to kill salmonella bacteria. Other safety recommendations include discarding cracked or dirty eggs without washing them; purchasing only eggs graded AA, A or B; washing hands, containers, preparation surfaces and utensils with hot, soapy water after handling raw eggs; purchasing shell eggs with proper labeling; and refrigerating eggs at 45 degrees Fahrenheit or lower. The county urged people who develop symptoms to contact their health care provider. Anyone who is still ill or has recovered can report the illness to the county Department of Environmental Health and Quality by calling 858-505- 6814 or emailing [email protected]. ...read more read less