Salmonella case in Wales amid UK outbreak linked to imported eggs
Salmonella case in Wales amid UK outbreak linked to imported eggs

A case of salmonella has been discovered in Wales after a UK outbreak has seen one person die and hundreds left unwell. It may be linked to eggs being imported from outside Britain, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

207 confirmed cases across the UK

It says that 207 cases have been confirmed between August 11 last year and the start of this month. This is broken down as 199 in England, one case in Wales, one in Northern Ireland and six in Scotland.

Of these, a third were admitted to hospital, with two developing life-threatening bloodstream infections.

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Investigation and prevention advice

Hannah Charles, lead epidemiologist for gastrointestinal infections at UKHSA, said it was investigating, together the Food Standards Agency. Ms Charles said: "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."

Symptoms and severe illness

Symptoms of salmonella, which is often caused by eating or handling contaminated food, generally include stomach cramps, diarrhoea, vomiting or fever. The UKHSA said those in vulnerable groups may experience more severe illness such as bloodstream infections, infection of metastatic sites, sepsis and multiorgan failure.

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