Prague school salmonella outbreak triggers police investigation

A major salmonella outbreak has occurred at the Masaryk Elementary School in Újezd nad Lesy, Prague, after students and staff consumed food prepared with expired eggs. Health authorities report that hundreds of people have experienced digestive issues, with approximately 363 individuals affected. At least 22 cases of salmonellosis have been laboratory-confirmed, and roughly 40 to 50 people have required hospitalization, some in intensive care.

The Prague Hygiene Station (HSHMP) confirmed that the school used eggs that had passed their minimum shelf life for meals served on Monday. The outbreak has impacted various groups, including children in the main building, students in nearby kindergartens, and seniors receiving meal deliveries.

Police have launched a criminal investigation into the potential endangerment of health through the use of defective food due to negligence. If proven, those responsible could face up to two years in prison. The school's director, Libor Skala, is considering resignation while working to restore normalcy. The school is currently closed for disinfection, and an external supplier will provide meals until the school kitchen is cleared for reopening following strict hygiene protocols and staff testing.