Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Imported Eggs Sickens 259, One Dead
UKHSA investigates three genetic clusters as hospitalisations rise, with focus on food hygiene and supply chain integrity.
Image: Eddie Pollard / AI
Carla Rooney
A salmonella outbreak has resulted in 259 reported cases and one death across the UK.
Hannah Charles, lead epidemiologist for gastrointestinal infections at UKHSA, confirmed the investigation points to imported eggs; the inquiry remains active.
Professor Ian Young also noted that while exact causes are still unconfirmed, investigations have identified links to imported eggs.
The UKHSA reports cases across all three clusters have increased since June, with genetic analysis suggesting a connection to imported eggs.
However, investigations in the Netherlands reportedly suggest a link with chicken meat, not eggs, prompting the inquiry to widen this week and include chicken as a potential source.
Salmonella infection typically causes diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, and fever for a short period in most people, Charles explained.
It can lead to more serious illness, including sepsis requiring hospital admission, particularly in those more vulnerable to infection.
The overall risk to the general public remains low.
Despite the severity for some, the UKHSA stated the overall risk to the general public remains low.
Jacquelyn McCormick, Head of Incidents at the Food Standards Agency, noted that thoroughly cooked and hygienically handled eggs should not present a food safety risk.
Charles reiterated this, stating, "The overall risk to the general public remains low."
There is no evidence that UK-produced eggs are affected by the outbreak, a point Professor Ian Young also affirmed: "There is no evidence that UK-produced eggs are affected."
Vulnerable groups are advised to eat only thoroughly cooked eggs in restaurants and cafes.
Good hygiene remains the best protection against foodborne illness, with Professor Ian Young advising, "As with any foodborne illness, good hygiene remains your best protection: store and cook food according to the packet instructions, wash your hands thoroughly before handling food and always after handling raw meat, poultry and eggs."
Charles confirmed that all salmonella samples from patients presenting to hospitals or primary care in England undergo whole genome sequencing, which provides a good understanding of new outbreak emergence.
She concluded, "We will continue to follow up cases and investigate any further common sources if they come to light."