UK salmonella cases nearing 500 as egg investigations continue

UK salmonella cases nearing 500 as egg investigations continue The UK Health Security Agency, external reported 207 cases in the past week, raising the total to 259. Two identified clusters increase the overall count to 474, with two deaths recorded so far. Although some illnesses date back a year, the bacteria involved are genetically nearly identical, pointing to a common food source. Investigators say many people became sick after eating eggs outside the home rather than after preparing them at home. Infections are also being detected in other European countries: Austria (2), Belgium (15), Denmark (1), France (4), Germany (6) and the Netherlands (106). Dutch inquiries have linked the outbreak there to chicken meat rather than eggs. Salmonella can be found in a variety of foods, including raw or under‑cooked poultry, other meats and eggs. More than a third of those infected in the UK – ranging from infants to a 92‑year‑old – have required hospital care, although most recover without specific treatment. The outbreak involves three closely related genetic clusters designated t5.9411, t0.24068 and t5.9765. The breakdown is as follows: - 259 confirmed cases and one death linked to t5.9411 - 38 confirmed cases and one death linked to t5.9765 - 177 confirmed cases linked to t0.24068 Most cases have been identified in recent weeks and months, but the investigation traces back to incidents as early as August 2025. The bulk of infections have occurred in England, with notable concentrations in London and Yorkshire and Humber. Smaller numbers of cases have also been reported in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. For further details see the UK Health Security Agency publication: The UK Health Security Agency, external.