Salmonella outbreak nears 500 UK cases
UK health authorities report nearly 500 salmonella infections linked to imported eggs, with two deaths. Cases span multiple European countries, and over a third of UK patients required hospital care.
Close to 500 people in the UK have become ill with salmonella linked to imported eggs, according to authorities. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has identified two new infection clusters, bringing the total number of cases to 474.
Some cases date back a year, but all involve bacteria that are almost genetically identical, suggesting a common food source. Investigations are ongoing, but experts say people have fallen sick after eating out rather than cooking eggs at home.
More than a third of those ill in the UK have needed hospital care. Patients range from babies to people as old as 92. Most people recover without treatment.
Outbreak Details
The UK outbreak involves a few specific, near-identical genetic clusters. The breakdown of confirmed cases and deaths is as follows:
| Genetic Cluster | Confirmed Cases | Deaths |
|---|---|---|
| t5.9411 | 259 | 1 |
| t5.9765 | 38 | 1 |
| t0.24068 | 177 | 0 |
Most cases have been recorded in recent weeks and months, but investigations go back to August 2025. The majority have been in England, with many in London and Yorkshire and Humber. A small number of cases have also been recorded in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
European Cases
Cases of salmonella are being seen in other European countries too. The UKHSA reports cases in Austria (2), Belgium (15), Denmark (1), France (4), Germany (6), and the Netherlands (106). Investigations in the Netherlands suggest a link with chicken meat, rather than eggs.
Safety Advice and Investigation
Prof Ian Young from the Food Standards Agency said investigations continue. "The exact causes of these outbreaks have not yet been identified," he stated, "but investigations so far have identified links to imported eggs. There is no evidence that UK-produced eggs are affected."
Experts advise it is safe to buy and eat eggs that have a British Lion mark or are produced under the Laid in Britain egg assurance scheme. Suppliers of British Lion mark eggs must stick to a strict code that covers testing and vaccinating hens against salmonella.
To prevent infection, people should prepare and cook food thoroughly. Washing hands after using the bathroom and before handling food is also recommended.
Symptoms and Risks
Symptoms include stomach cramps, diarrhoea, vomiting, or fever. These usually develop between 12 and 72 hours after becoming infected. Anyone who is concerned should contact their GP or an out-of-hours service.
In most cases, people recover without further help. However, older people, babies, and people with weakened immune systems are at the greatest risk of severe disease. The UKHSA says it will continue to follow up cases and investigate any further common sources.
