20 godzin temu
E.coli infections surged by 26% last year, with health officials recording 2,544 cases of the dangerous shiga toxin-producing strain across the UK. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) data reveals a concerning upward trend that has been building since 2022.
While health chiefs attributed part of the rise to a major foodborne outbreak last summer, they warned the gradual increase represents a broader public health concern. The outbreak, linked to contaminated salad leaves, resulted in 293 cases and forced major retailers to recall sandwiches, wraps and salads.
Serious health consequences emerge
The summer outbreak proved particularly severe, with 126 people requiring hospital treatment and 11 developing haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS), a life-threatening condition causing kidney failure. Two people died as a result of the contamination.
E.coli bacteria normally live harmlessly in human and animal intestines, but the shiga toxin-producing strain (Stec) creates dangerous toxins. These can cause severe diarrhoea, stomach cramps and fever, with symptoms lasting up to two weeks in uncomplicated cases.
Children face highest risk
Young children aged one to four recorded the highest infection rates, with 357 cases last year. Health officials believe this reflects lower immunity, poorer hygiene practices and greater exposure to risk factors such as contact with farm animals.
Dr Gauri Godbole, deputy director of gastrointestinal infections at UKHSA, said people must take preventive steps. "While this rise is partly due to one foodborne outbreak, we have been seeing Stec cases gradually increase since 2022," she explained.
Prevention measures urged
Health experts emphasised the importance of proper hygiene, particularly for families with young children. Parents should ensure children wash hands thoroughly with soap and hot water before eating, especially after outdoor play and farm visits.
Anyone experiencing symptoms should avoid preparing food for others and continue this precaution for 48 hours after symptoms stop. Dr Godbole advised using bleach-based products to clean surfaces and seeking medical attention for blood in stools or severe dehydration.
Food safety guidance issued
Natasha Smith from the Food Standards Agency urged people to follow the "4Cs of food hygiene" when preparing meals at home. These include chilling food properly, cleaning surfaces, cooking thoroughly and avoiding cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods.
The bacteria spreads through contaminated food, close contact with infected people, or direct contact with infected animals. Health officials particularly warn travellers abroad to maintain routine hygiene practices to reduce infection risk.
(PA) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
