Public health agencies across the United Kingdom are searching for the source of an E. coli outbreak that has sickened more than 100 people in less than two weeks. There have been 113 confirmed cases in the Shiga toxin-producing E.
coli (STEC) O145 outbreak since May 25. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), Public Health Scotland, and Public Health Wales are investigating the rise in infections. 81 people are sick in England, 18 in Wales, and 13 in Scotland.
Northern Ireland has one patient who likely acquired the infection in England. UKHSA warned that confirmed cases will rise as further samples undergo whole genome sequencing. Typically, the UK sees about 1,500 STEC infections per year.
Widely distributed food item Patients range in age from 2 to 79 years old, with the majority being young adults. Of the 81 cases in England, 61 have provided information to UKHSA on food, travel, and potential exposures, and 37 people have been hospitalized. Whole genome sequencing of samples indicates that most cases are part of a single outbreak.
Based on the wide geographic spread of sick people, it is likely that the outbreak is linked to a nationally distributed food item or multiple items, said UKHSA. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Food Standards Scotland (FSS) are also involved in the outbreak investigation. Darren Whitby, head of incidents and resilience at the FSA, said the agency is working to identify the source of illnesses.
“We always advise consumers and those looking.
