A person in England has died in connection with an ongoing E. coli outbreak, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). This individual, who had underlying health conditions, succumbed to the infection in May. Another person, also with pre-existing health issues, passed away within 28 days of contracting the current strain. However, the UKHSA notes that only one of these deaths is likely linked directly to the Shiga-toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) infection.
The outbreak, believed to originate from supermarket sandwiches containing salad leaves, has prompted several food manufacturers to recall and withdraw products as a precautionary measure. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) identified lettuce as the probable source of the contamination based on recent tests.
Darren Whitby, head of incidents at the FSA, stated: “Earlier this month, we confirmed that several sandwich manufacturers had taken precautionary action to withdraw and recall various sandwiches, wraps, subs, and rolls after food chain and epidemiological links enabled us to narrow down a wide range of foods to a type of lettuce used in sandwich products as the likely cause of the outbreak.” He added that ongoing efforts aim to confirm the cause and prevent future occurrences.
As of 25 June, the UK has recorded 275 cases of STEC O145, with 182 in England, 58 in Scotland, 31 in Wales, and four in Northern Ireland (the latter likely acquired in England). At least 122 people have required hospital treatment since the outbreak began.
While the number of new cases is declining, indicating a potential end to the outbreak, experts caution that the total number of affected individuals may still rise as some samples await testing.
E. coli bacteria, which normally reside in human and animal intestines, come in various types. While many are harmless, some can cause serious illness. The strain involved in this outbreak, STEC O145, can damage the gut lining. Symptoms typically develop within a few days and may include:
In uncomplicated cases, symptoms can persist for up to two weeks. Though most individuals recover without medical intervention, young children and those with underlying health conditions are at higher risk of severe illness. There is no specific treatment for E. coli infections, and most affected individuals can be managed at home.
To reduce the risk of E. coli infection, individuals should:
Consumers are urged to remain vigilant and adhere to these preventive measures to protect themselves and others from infection.