One person dead and more than 200 ill in UK salmonella outbreak
UKHSA rules out British produce as source of infections and says evidence points to consumption of imported eggs One person has died and more than 200 others have fallen ill during a UK-wide outbreak of salmonella that health officials have linked to the consumption of imported eggs. The 207 people affected range in age from under one year to 90 years old, according to the UK Health Security…
A deadly salmonella outbreak has claimed one life and sickened more than 200 people across the UK, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The culprit, a single strain of the bacteria, appears to have been consumed through imported eggs at cafes and restaurants, rather than at home. Health officials have ruled out British produce as the source, pointing to eggs imported into Britain as the likely cause.
The investigation is being conducted in collaboration with other European countries through a joint system of surveillance for threats to health.
At least 34 individuals required hospitalization due to severe salmonellosis, with two cases involving a bloodstream infection. The first case was reported on August 11th, 2025, but the majority of instances have been identified since mid-last month. The outbreak has primarily affected England (199 cases), followed by Scotland (six cases) and Wales and Northern Ireland (one case each).
London has been the hardest hit, with 47 reported cases, while Yorkshire and the Humber region accounts for 38 cases. Dr. Safi Rehman, a research associate at King’s College London, noted that this outbreak is closely related to a 2025 outbreak, also linked to imported eggs, sharing genetic similarities between the two strains.
The UKHSA has launched extensive epidemiological and food chain investigations to trace the source and origin of the contamination. Interviews with 114 affected individuals have revealed five food businesses where two or more cases were reported within a week of symptom onset. These premises, which supply eggs from various sources, including importers, are currently under local scrutiny for potential cross-contamination risks.
Salmonellosis, caused by consuming or handling contaminated food, often affects vulnerable groups with weakened immune systems more severely. Symptoms include diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, and fever. Anyone experiencing these symptoms is advised to contact their GP or out-of-hours service promptly.
Public health officials urge the public to prevent the spread of salmonella by practicing good hygiene, such as thorough handwashing before food preparation and handling, cooking food to proper temperatures, and avoiding contact with others if symptomatic.
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