County health investigators have discovered a genetic connection between a regional salmonella outbreak and a Ramona-area poultry operation, according to officials conducting an ongoing probe into the illness cluster.
Laboratory testing identified matching DNA strains between the outbreak cases and eggs that came from Happy Hens poultry farm, whether through distribution channels or direct consumer purchases from the facility.
The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine the full scope of the contamination and potential exposure. Health officials have not yet announced whether additional safety measures or recalls will be implemented in response to the findings.