A person has died and hundreds have fallen ill with salmonella food poisoning in a UK outbreak. Experts believe the outbreak is linked to eating food made with imported eggs.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is investigating 207 cases recorded in the past year, with most occurring in recent weeks. More than a third of those affected, ranging from babies to individuals aged 90, have required hospital care, and two have developed serious blood poisoning.
Most cases, 199 of the 207, have been in England, including 47 in London and 38 in Yorkshire and Humber. Hannah Charles, lead epidemiologist for gastrointestinal infections at UKHSA, stated that they are working with the Food Standards Agency and other public health agencies to investigate the outbreak.
Symptoms of salmonella include stomach cramps, diarrhoea, vomiting, or fever, typically developing 12 to 72 hours after infection. The UKHSA advises anyone concerned to contact their GP or out-of-hours service.
The UKHSA has stated that extensive epidemiological and food chain investigations are ongoing to identify the source, with egg consumption remaining the strongest link to date. Some food businesses linked to 24 of the cases use imported eggs, but there is no identified link to UK-produced eggs or poultry at this time. The risk to the general public is considered low.