The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an urgent national alert following a significant outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E.coli (STEC) infections across the country. With over 50 confirmed cases in just one week, health officials are scrambling to identify the source of the contamination.
The outbreak, believed to be linked to a pre-packaged salad product sold in major supermarkets, has already affected individuals ranging from children as young as two to adults up to 79 years old. The UKHSA has confirmed that many of those infected required hospital treatment due to the severity of their symptoms.
What Are the Symptoms to Watch For?
Health experts are urging the public to be vigilant for symptoms of STEC infection, which include:
- Severe and often bloody diarrhoea
- Stomach cramps and abdominal pain
- Fever
- Nausea and vomiting
These symptoms typically develop within three to four days after infection but can appear anywhere from one to fourteen days after exposure.
The Ongoing Investigation
While the exact food item responsible hasn't been officially confirmed, the UKHSA, along with the Food Standards Agency (FSA), Food Standards Scotland and public health agencies across the UK, are working tirelessly to trace the source. The investigation points toward salad leaves as the likely culprit.
Trish Mannes, Incident Director at UKHSA, emphasised the seriousness of the situation: "There is currently no evidence linking the outbreak to open farms, drinking water, or swimming in contaminated seawater, swimming pools, or rivers. However, we continue to thoroughly investigate every possible source."
How to Protect Yourself and Your Family
As a precautionary measure, the public is advised to:
- Avoid eating any pre-packaged salad items until further notice.
- Maintain strict hygiene practices, including thorough handwashing with soap and warm water after using the toilet and before handling food.
- Use bleach-based products to clean surfaces that may have come into contact with contaminated food.
- If you experience symptoms, avoid preparing food for others and do not return to work, school, or nursery until 48 hours after your symptoms have cleared.
Anyone experiencing severe symptoms, particularly bloody diarrhoea, is urged to contact NHS 111 or their GP immediately. For those with mild symptoms, staying hydrated and resting at home is recommended to prevent further spread.
This developing story is being closely monitored, and further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
