Salmonella Outbreak in UK: 1 Death, 207 Cases Linked to Imported Eggs, UKHSA Says; Check Symptoms and Prevention
A UKHSA salmonella egg outbreak has sickened 207 people and killed one, with health officials investigating a possible link to eggs imported from outside the UK. More than a third of those affected required hospital care, while two developed serious bloodstream infections. Most cases were reported in England, and the risk to the public remains low.
A salmonella egg outbreak has been reported in the UK, with 207 confirmed cases and one death, according to health officials. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said the outbreak may be linked to eggs imported from outside the UK, with most cases recorded in recent weeks. More than a third of those affected have required hospital treatment.
Of the 207 cases confirmed between 11 August last year and the start of this month, 199 were reported in England, six in Scotland, one in Wales and one in Northern Ireland, BBC reported. Two people developed potentially life-threatening bloodstream infections, while those affected ranged from babies to people aged 90. Meningococcal Meningitis News: Fact Checks and FAQ on Kent Outbreak.
Salmonella Outbreak Linked To Imported Eggs
The UKHSA has launched an investigation into the outbreak, which involves a specific and identical strain of salmonella. Hannah Charles, lead epidemiologist for gastrointestinal infections at UKHSA, said: "We're working with 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."
The agency said "extensive" epidemiological and food chain investigations are ongoing to identify the source. Egg consumption remains the strongest suspected link to date. UK Meningitis Outbreak: What Is MenB Vaccine? Emergency Rollout Expanded in Kent as Cases Rise to 27.
Some of the food businesses linked to 24 of the cases use imported eggs. "At this time there is no identified link to UK-produced eggs or poultry," says the UKHSA. The risk to the general public is currently considered low, with additional precautions or preventative measures to be implemented if needed.
Most Cases Reported In England
Most of the confirmed infections were recorded in England, with 47 cases reported in London and 38 in Yorkshire and Humber. The UKHSA said more than a third of those affected had required hospital care. Two patients developed serious blood poisoning, while one person has died.
The agency noted that salmonella infections can occur throughout the year, but said it is unusual to see an outbreak involving one specific strain affecting many people at the same time. Thousands of food poisoning cases occur in the UK each year and can be caused by different strains of salmonella.
What Are The Symptoms Of Salmonella?
Symptoms can include stomach cramps, diarrhoea, vomiting and fever. These symptoms usually develop between 12 and 72 hours after a person becomes infected.
The UKHSA advises anyone who is concerned about symptoms to contact their GP or out-of-hours service in the first instance. Most people recover without treatment, although some infections can become more serious.
How Can Salmonella Infection Be Prevented?
Salmonella can be found in several food sources, including raw or undercooked poultry or meat and eggs. Thoroughly preparing and cooking food can help prevent infection. People are also advised to wash their hands after using the bathroom and before handling food.
Jacquelyn McCormick, Head of Incidents at the Food Standards Agency, said eggs which are thoroughly cooked and handled hygienically should not present a food safety risk.
She advised: "Infants, young children, pregnant people and older adults should only eat runny or raw eggs if they have a British Lion mark or are produced under the Laid in Britain egg assurance scheme." People handling eggs, eggshells or egg packaging should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water, she added.
The UKHSA is continuing its investigation with the Food Standards Agency and other public health agencies to establish how the specific salmonella strain entered the food chain.
Officials are examining links between cases and food businesses, with imported eggs emerging as the strongest suspected source so far. The agency has not identified a link to eggs or poultry produced in the UK.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 18, 2026 06:36 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).