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E. Coli Outbreak in UK due to significant rise
1 year ago •source gov.uk
United Kingdom
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), along with public health agencies in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales, are currently investigating a significant rise in Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) cases across the UK. The bacteria can cause severe bloody diarrhea and, in some instances, more serious complications. It is typically transmitted through contaminated food, close contact with an infected individual, or direct contact with an infected animal or its environment.Whole genome sequencing of samples from the current investigation suggests that most cases are part of a single outbreak, likely linked to a nationally distributed food item or multiple food items. However, the exact source of the outbreak has not been confirmed. As of now, there is no evidence linking the outbreak to open farms, drinking water, or swimming in contaminated bodies of water.
As of June 4, there have been 113 confirmed cases of STEC O145 associated with this outbreak, all reported since May 25, 2024. The cases are distributed as follows:
- 81 in England
- 18 in Wales
- 13 in Scotland
- 1 in Northern Ireland.
The age of the patients ranges from 2 to 79 years old, with the majority being young adults. Of the 81 cases in England, 61 have provided information related to food, travel, and potential exposures, and 61% of these have been hospitalized.
The public is advised to take steps to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal infections, including regular hand washing with warm water and soap, following food hygiene measures such as washing fruits and vegetables and properly cooking food, and avoiding preparing food for others or visiting people in hospitals or care homes if they have diarrhea and vomiting. Individuals are also advised not to return to work, school, or nursery until 48 hours after their symptoms have stopped.
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