A person has died and hundreds more have fallen ill in a UK-wide salmonella outbreak, according to health officials. The UK Health Security Agency confirmed 207 cases between August 11 last year and August 1 this year, with 199 in England, six in Scotland, one in Wales, and one in Northern Ireland. The outbreak has been linked to imported eggs, mainly used by restaurants and cafes, according to the Food Standards Agency.
No evidence has been found that UK-produced eggs are involved in the outbreak, according to theboltonnews.co.uk. More than a third of those affected were admitted to hospital, with two people developing severe bloodstream infections. London and Yorkshire and Humber have seen the highest numbers of reported cases.
The outbreak appears to be connected to a previous spate of cases in 2025, which were also linked to imported eggs, according to a report from jang.com.pk. Symptoms of salmonella include diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, and fever, usually appearing within 12 to 72 hours after infection, The News International reported. The UK Health Security Agency is continuing investigations into the source of the outbreak.
Health officials advise people to fully cook eggs and wash hands thoroughly to prevent infection. The highest numbers of cases have been reported in London and Yorkshire and Humber. Cases span a wide age range, from babies to people as old as 90 years.
Salmonellosis is often caused by eating or handling contaminated food, and can rarely spread from person to person. People with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of severe illness from salmonella. The number of confirmed cases is likely only a small part of the actual outbreak, experts say.
Dr. Damien Tully said most healthy individuals recover without serious complications, but salmonella can be dangerous for vulnerable groups. The Food Standards Agency continues to advise that thoroughly cooked eggs are safe to eat. Infants, young children, pregnant people, and older adults should only consume eggs with a British Lion mark or from the Laid in Britain scheme.
Those who are severely immunocompromised must follow special dietary guidance from medical professionals. The UK Health Security Agency and the Food Standards Agency are working together to track down the source of the outbreak. Epidemiologists are investigating how imported eggs may have entered the food chain.
Health officials warn that anyone experiencing symptoms should contact their GP or out-of-hours service. Salmonella infections are common in the UK, with many cases tied to distinct strains of the bacteria. The outbreak has raised concerns about food safety practices in catering and food service establishments.
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