One dead, over 200 ill in UK Salmonella outbreak: Symptoms, cause and all you need to know | World News
One person has died, and more than 200 people have fallen ill in a Salmonella outbreak across the UK, with health officials investigating a possible link to imported eggs.The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said 199 cases were recorded in England, six in Scotland, one in Wales and one in Northern Ireland between August 11, 2025 and August 1, 2026. Most of the cases were reported this year.About 38% of people with available hospital information were admitted for treatment, and two patients developed bloodstream infections. Those affected range from babies to people aged 90.The UKHSA said the outbreak involves a single strain of Salmonella Enteritidis, with genetic evidence indicating a common source of infection.
Imported eggs under investigation
Health officials are working with the Food Standards Agency (FSA), public health bodies and the Animal and Plant Health Agency to establish how people became infected.The UKHSA said evidence collected so far points most strongly towards egg consumption. Food businesses connected to 24 cases were examined, with some using imported eggs.“We’re working with the Food Standards Agency and other public health agencies to investigate a salmonella outbreak that may be linked to eggs imported from outside of the UK,” said Hannah Charles, lead epidemiologist for gastrointestinal infections at UKHSA.The agency said there is currently no identified link to eggs or poultry produced in the UK.Investigations are continuing across the food supply chain. Officials will consider additional precautions if the evidence indicates they are necessary.The UKHSA said the outbreak is also genetically linked to a Salmonella outbreak in 2025 that was associated with imported eggs.
What are the symptoms?
Salmonella infection can cause diarrhoea, stomach cramps, vomiting and fever, with symptoms generally developing after exposure to contaminated food.Most infections result in gastrointestinal illness that resolves without specific treatment. However, young children, older people and those with weakened immune systems can develop more serious complications, including bloodstream infections, sepsis and organ failure.Charles advised people to take basic food-safety precautions.“There are simple steps to prevent the spread of salmonella: wash your hands thoroughly after using the bathroom and before preparing and handling food, cook food thoroughly, and if you have any symptoms, avoid handling food for others where possible.”
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