Outbreak of Rare Salmonella Strain in UK: Affecting Childern

May 28, 2025

Public health authorities in the United Kingdom are investigating an outbreak of Salmonella Saintpaul, a rare strain of Salmonella that has affected 25 individuals across the country. Alarmingly, more than half of the reported cases involve young children, with a median patient age of just 5 years.

Outbreak Details

  • Total Confirmed Cases: 25
  • Hospitalizations: 5
  • Regions Affected: England (19 cases), Northern Ireland (2)
  • Age Range: Less than 1 year to 88 years
  • Gender Breakdown: 16 female, 9 male
  • Most Affected Age Group: Children under 5

All cases were confirmed between February 20 and March 4, 2025, and were found to be genetically linked through Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS), indicating a common source or strain.

Possible Source and Investigations

While Salmonella Saintpaul is rare in the UK, it was previously linked to imported cantaloupe melons in a 2023 outbreak that sickened over 90 people. However, no direct link to cantaloupe or any other food source has been established in this case.

Dr. Gauri Godbole, Deputy Director of Gastrointestinal Infections at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), emphasized the importance of hygiene during outbreaks. “Bacteria like Salmonella can spread from person to person or through contaminated food. Proper handwashing, especially after using the toilet or handling food, is crucial to prevent transmission,” she stated.

Public Health Advice

  • Avoid sending children to school or daycare until at least 48 hours after symptoms (such as diarrhea or vomiting) subside.
  • Maintain good hygiene, particularly handwashing after using the toilet or changing nappies.
  • Refrain from preparing food for others if you are symptomatic.

With the last case reported in March, the outbreak appears to have paused, but public health officials continue to trace the source. This incident underscores the persistent threat of foodborne illnesses and the critical need for food safety vigilance, particularly in protecting vulnerable populations like children.

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